Leipzig Zoo’s Terrarium Reopened After Modernization

(eap) Following the completion of extensive modernization works, the terrarium at Leipzig Zoo was reopened to visitors last Saturday. Among the animal residents now housed in the facility are Jamaican iguanas, alligators, venomous snakes, young Komodo dragons, radiated tortoises, Chinese giant salamanders and many other species. In close coordination with the preservation authorities, the interior of the historic building – erected in 1913 based on designs by building inspector Anton Käppler (†) with a façade created by Rolf Saudek (†) – was completely renewed. With the terrarium now connected to the existing aquarium, a new circular route has been created, guiding guests through the course of evolution and the transition of life from water to land.

Feierliche Zeremonie zur Einweihung des Terrariums mit dem Oberbürgermeister und Ehrengästen. © Zoo Leipzig

“The realization of the ‘Zoo of the Future’ master plan has meant 25 years of ongoing development, linked to many visions, hard work and intense emotions. The reopening of the terrarium once again demonstrates how ideas can be translated into reality,” explained Zoo Director Prof. Jörg Junhold. This view was echoed by Leipzig’s Mayor Burkhard Jung, who has accompanied the implementation of the master plan throughout his entire term of office: “[…] With the reopening of the terrarium, the historic founding garden is now complete again. Our zoo combines historic architecture with the most modern standards of animal husbandry, enabling visitors to experience animals up close and discover the beauty of life. With this modernization, our zoo continues to position itself among the international leaders and remains one of the most important leisure and educational destinations in our city.”

© Zoo Leipzig

“With the transformation of the zoo over the past 25 years, Leipzig Zoo has successfully established itself as a year-round destination for all generations. From the great ape facility ‘Pongoland’ to the tropical adventure world ‘Gondwanaland’ and the historic aquarium-terrarium complex, the zoo continues to offer visitors opportunities for new discoveries within an exciting world of animals and plants throughout the year,” said Zoo Director Junhold, expressing his anticipation of the animal encounters to come. The master plan is scheduled to be completed by 2028. ■