Artis Zoo, Amsterdam, the
Netherlands
Plantage Kerklaan 38-40
1018 CZ Amsterdam
The Netherlands
Tel: +31-20-5233400.
Fax: +31-20-5233481
www.amsterdamzoo.nl
Artis, the oldest zoo in the Netherlands, founded in 1838,
shows its historical character even before you walk through
the gates: two golden eagles are perched proudly atop
the main entrance. People enjoy the 19th-century atmosphere
of the gardens: the winding paths, majestic trees, the
fascinating sculptures and the monumental historical buildings.
Artis is a haven of peace and quiet right
in the city centre
of Amsterdam. Artis is a fascinating zoo. In an area of
14 hectares around 700 species of animals provide a
magnificent overview of the entire animal kingdom.
Amphibians, reptiles, fish, birds,
mammals and insects... all
are superbly represented. Artis's renowned Aquarium brings
you face to face with … the secret life of Amsterdam's canals!
Around the zoo you'll find many more Dutch and European animal
and plant species, as well as more exotic ones. You can also
come to quench your thirst for knowledge at the Planetarium,
the museums and all kinds of smaller exhibitions.
In addition to being a zoo, Artis is also
a botanical garden.
Although many of the plants and trees in Artis are native to
the Netherlands, many species have been gathered from all
over the world, just like the animal species in Artis.
As they wander through the zoo, visitors to Artis get a good
impression of the diversity of plants, trees and shrubs that
make up the plant kingdom. The large greenhouses are to the
rear of the zoo.
Those species of plants that are not at
home in our climate
are to be found in greenhouses and heated buildings. Every year,
from January to about May, thousands of bulbs bloom in Artis.
These may emerge, like their wild forebears, from areas of
grass or between bushes - or they may have been carefully
planted out in the flowerbeds and flower tubs. In addition
to the familiar tulips, daffodils and crocuses, there are also
less well-known species such as the yellow star of Bethlehem,
alpine squill, iris and glory of the snow. Even in the winter
you can find bulbous plants in bloom, such as the common
meadow saffron and the saffron.
