Zamość Zoo

The Stefan Miler Zamość Zoological Garden is the only zoo in the Lublin Voivodeship and one of the few in eastern Poland. It spans an area of 13.8 hectares and is home to 2,524 animals representing 312 species. The history of the zoo dates back to 1918, when biology professor Stefan Miler established the first school zoo in Poland near the State Men's Gymnasium. Initially small, the zoo housed turtles and grass snakes. Over the years, it grew, and in 1923, thanks to a fundraising campaign, an aviary was built, significantly enriching the zoo's offerings. Visited by various dignitaries, including Polish President Ignacy Mościcki, the zoo became an important educational and cultural site. Unforgettable are the stories of animals such as the bear "Miś" and the lion "War," which accompanied Professor Miler and were the source of numerous anecdotes. After World War II, in the 1980s, the zoo was relocated to a new, larger area, opening up opportunities for further development. The modern zoo stands out for its architecture, with modern facilities and educational spaces resulting from a modernization effort that began in 2008. The zoo was admitted to the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) in 2010, highlighting its significance on the European zoological map. The zoo not only serves recreational and educational purposes but also introduces innovative solutions, such as collaboration with a zoo in Java, which led to the acquisition of rare masked palm civets. Thus, the Zamość Zoological Garden combines a rich history, educational importance, a commitment to continuous modernization, and a dedication to the protection and preservation of biodiversity.