Discovering Zoo Basel

Zoo Basel opened its doors after a project by the Ornithologiegesellschaft and the city of Basel established a zoological garden. In its opening year, the zoo welcomed 62,000 visitors, exceeding the city's population at the time.

The zoo doubled its area by adding the Sautergarten in the south toward Binningen. This area featured a festival meadow where traditional villages from various cultures were displayed until 1932.

The Antelope House was completed and opened in 1910. It remains the oldest building currently standing within the zoo grounds.

Following the economic challenges caused by World War I, the 'Friends of Zoo Basel' was created to provide financial and animal support to the institution.

Zoo Basel achieved a historical milestone in 1956 with the birth of Rudra, the first Indian rhinoceros ever born in a zoo. The institution has maintained a significant focus on rhinoceros conservation and breeding ever since.

The zoo's largest building, the monkey house, was constructed and opened in 1969. It later became the site of historical breeding successes for gorillas.

The aquarium, known as the Vivarium, opened in 1972. It houses a diverse range of marine and freshwater species and has since facilitated numerous notable breeding programs.

The monkey house underwent extensive renovations and expansions between 2011 and 2012, costing approximately 30 million Swiss francs. The project significantly enlarged the available outdoor exhibits for the primates.