History
The Tierpark Berlin has its roots in the partition of Germany after the Second World War. The famous Zoological Garden was now situated in the British sector of Berlin. The GDR’s state leadership wanted to establish a rival zoo of equal standing.
"Whoever wishes to shape the future must first look back at the past."
Tracing the past
1950er
After the division of Berlin, the East German government wanted a zoo in the eastern part of the city that was as popular as Zoo Berlin in the west. The chosen location was the park of Friedrichsfelde manor house, designed by renowned landscape architect Peter Joseph Lenné.
1955
Under the stewardship of Prof. Heinrich Dathe, Europe’s biggest animal park opened – home to 130 different species. Director Dathe went on to shape the Tierpark for the next 30 years.
1959
Private individuals and firms participated in the building of the park – giving it a special place in the hearts of the local population.
1963
A global sensation! The Alfred Brehm building opened – the world’s largest animal house at that time. The walk-through Tropical Hall featuring tall cliffs, moats and fruit bats was unique.
Anfang 1980er
Historic Friedrichsfelde manor house was lovingly restored.
1991
Various provisional structures that had been built due to a lack of construction materials in the GDR were threatening to collapse and were thus replaced with more stable, utilitarian buildings. The Giraffe House, Primate House and Mountain Landscape were created.
2014
Under the leadership of Zoo Director Dr Andreas Knieriem, Tierpark Berlin has enjoyed increasing popularity. As an important recreation site, the Tierpark attracts increasing numbers of visitors from near and far.
