Pécs Zoo
Pécs Zoo & Aquarium-Terrarium is one of Hungary's smaller zoological gardens, established in 1960 in the Mecsek mountains above the city. Originally known as Mecsek Cultural Park, it underwent significant reconstruction and re-opened in 2016 with expanded facilities, including the integrated Aquarium-Terrarium.
Key Facts
- ›Established in 1960, originally named Mecsek Cultural Park.
- ›Located in the Mecsek mountains above Pécs, Hungary.
- ›Zoo area is 3.5 hectares (approximately 8.6 acres).
- ›In 2012, housed 250 animals representing 57 species.
- ›The Aquarium-Terrarium, built in 1985, was integrated into the zoo after reconstruction.
- ›Reconstruction completed in 2016, significantly improving facilities and capacity.
Aquarium-Terrarium, Medieval Cellar System
Cougars, Lions, Tigers, Leopards, Black Panthers, Eurasian Lynx, Bears, Wolves, Monkeys, Kangaroos, Camels, Hippopotamuses, Deer, Antelopes, Zebras, Falabella Miniature Horses, Monitor Lizard, Seals, Brown Bears, Zebra Shark, Requiem Sharks
About Pécs Zoo
Pécs Zoo & Aquarium-Terrarium
Pécs Zoo & Aquarium-Terrarium, located in Pécs, Hungary, is a zoological institution situated within the natural landscape of the Mecsek mountains. Established in 1960, it was initially known as Mecsek Cultural Park. The zoo's development involved significant contributions from students and laborers during its construction phase.
History and Development
The zoo's construction took place between 1959 and 1961, with the official opening occurring on August 19, 1960. The location was chosen to integrate the zoo into the surrounding hills, away from the city center. Initially, the site featured a small terrarium and aquarium, along with a variety of large cats and other mammals. However, due to space constraints and outdated facilities, many animals were relocated to other zoos in the early 2000s.
The Aquarium-Terrarium component was established in 1985 to commemorate the zoo's 25th anniversary. It was housed in a medieval cellar system on Munkácsy street, allowing for the maintenance of a controlled tropical environment. This facility contained numerous terrariums and aquariums, housing a diverse range of species. In 2016, the Aquarium-Terrarium was closed and its inhabitants were moved to the main zoo site following extensive reconstruction.
Reconstruction and Modernization
By the early 2010s, the 50-year-old zoo was in a state of disrepair, with outdated enclosures that did not meet modern standards. Plans for relocation were considered due to financial constraints and infrastructure concerns, but ultimately, a major reconstruction project began in May 2014. This comprehensive renovation, costing 1.2 billion Hungarian forint, resulted in the zoo's closure until the spring of 2016. Upon re-opening, the zoo had expanded its area, integrated the Aquarium-Terrarium, and was equipped to house larger animal species. The reconstruction aimed to modernize the facilities and enhance the visitor experience.
Animal Collection and Visitors
Before its reconstruction, in 2012, Pécs Zoo housed approximately 250 animals representing 57 species, including lions, monkeys, kangaroos, camels, and zebras. The zoo attracts around 100,000 visitors annually. The reconstructed zoo is designed to accommodate a wider range of animals, with plans to introduce species such as seals, tigers, brown bears, and various shark species. The integration of the Aquarium-Terrarium further broadens the diversity of species on display.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Pécs Zoo established?
Pécs Zoo was established in 1960. Construction began in April 1959 and was completed in 1961, with the zoo officially opening on August 19, 1960.
Where is Pécs Zoo located?
Pécs Zoo is situated in the Mecsek mountains, located above the city of Pécs in Hungary. Its original intention was to place the zoo within natural surroundings outside the urban landscape.
What was the original name of Pécs Zoo?
The zoo was originally known as Mecsek Cultural Park. It was later renamed Pécs Zoo & Aquarium-Terrarium.
What is the Aquarium-Terrarium?
The Aquarium-Terrarium is a facility that was initially separate from the zoo, built in 1985 within a medieval cellar system. It was designed to maintain a tropical atmosphere and housed various aquariums and terrariums. It has since been integrated into the main zoo.
When did Pécs Zoo undergo reconstruction?
The zoo underwent a significant reconstruction that began in May 2014 and concluded with its re-opening in the spring of 2016. This renovation addressed the poor condition of older facilities and allowed for larger animals.
What is the size of Pécs Zoo?
The area of the zoo is 3.5 hectares, which is approximately 8.6 acres. This size was considered not large enough to house many bigger animals before the reconstruction.
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