The Zagreb City Zoo, an emerald jewel in the heart of the centuries-old Maksimir forest and one of the city's most beloved institutions, this year proudly marks an exceptional jubilee – one hundred years of existence. This significant anniversary, which testifies to a long and rich history, has already begun with a series of special events, and the grand finale of the celebration is expected at the end of June, exactly on the day the Zoo opened its doors a century ago. Through the decades, the Zoo has not only been a home to thousands of animals but also a place of learning, joy, and unforgettable memories for generations of Zagreb residents and numerous visitors. Many of them, coming to the capital city, also look for adequate accommodation in Zagreb to fully experience everything the city has to offer, including this green oasis.

A century of growth and development in the heart of Maksimir

The story of the Zoo begins on June 27, 1925, when it was opened on the First Maksimir Lake on the initiative of the enthusiastic hydrotechnical engineer Mijo pl. Filipović, and with the wholehearted support of the then-mayor Vjekoslav Heinzel. Humble beginnings, with only three foxes and a few tawny owls, soon grew into a serious collection of animal species. In its first decade of existence, the first large predators such as lions and leopards arrived at the Zoo, as well as imposing polar bears and attractive zebras, which sparked enormous public interest. In parallel with the arrival of new inhabitants, the space was constantly evolving. Enclosures were built which, in accordance with the standards of the time, sought to provide the animals with the best possible conditions. The Zoo's area, initially much smaller, expanded over time to meet growing needs, reaching its current size of seven hectares. At the same time, investments were made in infrastructure for visitors, whose numbers grew unstoppably. An impressive figure from 1987, when as many as half a million visitors were recorded, speaks volumes about the popularity and importance the Zoo had for the social life of the city. Throughout history, some of today's recognizable symbols were also built, such as the Lion Bridge with its stone sculptures or the entrance tower, a former bear enclosure, which today serves as a reminder of times past.

International recognition and commitment to species conservation

Entering its eighth decade of existence, the Zagreb City Zoo made a crucial step onto the international stage. It became a full member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). Membership in these umbrella organizations is not just a matter of prestige; it entails adhering to the highest standards in animal care, participating in breeding programs for endangered species (EEP programs), and playing an active role in global biodiversity conservation efforts. The commitment to excellence was also confirmed by obtaining ISO 9001:2000 certification for quality management and ISO 14001:2000 for environmental management. EAZA recognized the efforts of Zagreb's experts and awarded the Zoo prestigious awards – the first for a campaign to raise public awareness of the need to protect European predators, and then for a campaign dedicated to the protection of great apes. A special chapter in the mission of species conservation was written with a unique project – the Zagreb Zoo is the only place in the world where visitors can see the olm, an endemic and critically endangered amphibian of the Dinaric Karst. By establishing specialized enclosures that replicate the conditions of underground caves, the Zoo not only educates the public about this mysterious creature but also actively participates in scientific research crucial for its survival.

Education as the foundation for the future

From its very beginnings, the Zoo has had an important educational role, but it was formalized and strengthened with the construction of the first educational hall. This marked the beginning of the systematic implementation of educational programs that continue to develop and expand to this day. Aware that knowledge is the key to understanding and preserving nature, the Zoo has become a real "classroom in nature" for many generations. Today, it offers a wide range of programs tailored to different age groups – from kindergarten children to students and adult citizens. Through expert-guided tours, creative workshops, lectures, and special themed events, visitors are introduced to the animal world, their habitats, their endangerment, and the ways in which each of us can contribute to their protection in an interesting and interactive way. The Education Center and the team of biologists and educators are the heart of this mission, turning every visit to the Zoo into a learning experience. This educational dimension makes the Zoo an unmissable destination for family trips, as well as organized school visits from all over Croatia, which further stimulates tourist interest for a stay in Zagreb.

Modernization and European projects for a new century

The new history of the Zoo is marked by intensive modernization and capital investments. With the support of the City of Zagreb and the use of funds from European Union funds, several phases of renovation have been carried out that have completely transformed the look and functionality of the Zoo. Through projects such as "Modernization of the Zagreb City Zoo" and "City of Wilderness," new, spacious, and modern enclosures have been built that faithfully mimic the natural habitats of the animals. An impressive enclosure for African lions "Kidepo Rock," a volary for African wetland birds, a new enclosure for Persian leopards, and enclosures for pelicans, Dalmatian and white-handed gibbons have been built. Special attention has also been paid to animal welfare, with enrichment of the living space being an imperative. As part of the third phase of modernization, a recovery center for wild animals was established, where an expert team cares for injured, sick, or exhausted native animals with the aim of returning them to nature. These projects have not only raised the quality of life for the animals to the highest level but have also provided visitors with a more attractive and content-rich experience, confirming the Zoo's status as a modern European institution. Every visitor who comes to Zagreb will find here a place that is constantly developing and progressing.

Celebrating the great jubilee: We are only 100 years old!

The celebration of the centenary, under the optimistic slogan "We are only 100 years old!", began with an attractive photo exhibition in the very heart of the city, on the popular Zrinjevac. The exhibition brought the fascinating history of the Zoo closer to citizens and tourists, from its humble beginnings to the present day, showing key moments, former and current inhabitants, and the people who have woven their life and work into its development. This was just an introduction to a rich program that will take place throughout the year, culminating in a grand celebration on June 27, 2025, on the Zoo's very birthday. Visitors can expect an abundance of educational, entertaining, and special content during the celebratory month. What is most important and what guarantees a bright future is the unbreakable bond that the Zoo has with its city. Generations of Zagreb residents and their guests follow all the news related to the animal inhabitants with undiminished enthusiasm, participate in numerous activities and programs, and thus support the Zoo's fundamental task – the conservation of nature and education for the future. Therefore, the hundredth birthday is not only a celebration of the past but also a pledge for the next hundred years of coexistence between the city and its "wild heart". Planning a visit during this jubilee year is an excellent reason to book accommodation in the city of Zagreb and participate in a unique celebration.