Artis Royal Zoo: A Historic Park in Amsterdam

Artis zoo was founded in 1838 by three zoology enthusiasts: Gerard Westerman, J.W.H. Werlemann, and J.J. Wijsmuller. Initially, it was only open to members.

Artis is the oldest operating zoo in the Netherlands and ranks as the fifth oldest operating zoo globally.

Starting in 1851, Artis began opening its gates to the public during the month of September. It later became open year-round in 1920, though September is still a discount month.

The core of the current zoo property, known as the "Middenhof" estate, was purchased by the zoological society "Natura Artis Magistra" in late 1838.

In 1921, Artis transferred its extensive ethnographic collection, previously housed in its Ethnographic Museum, to the nearby Tropenmuseum.

The aquarium building was constructed in 1882 on land leased from the city with the condition that only a museum could be built there.

Artis contains 27 historically significant buildings, bridges, and ponds, many of which continue to be used as animal enclosures.

Artis houses a significant library focused on the history of zoology and botany, which also includes collections from the Zoological Museum Amsterdam and the Amsterdam Botanical Garden.

The last known quagga in captivity died at Artis on August 12, 1883. At the time, it was not recognized as the last of its kind.

Artis was opened year-round to the public in 1920, a significant expansion from its previous limited public access during September.

The library at Artis dates back to 1867. Additionally, the 'Ledenlokalen' building near the main entrance also originates from the 19th century.