Wilhelma Zoological-Botanical Garden
Baden-Württemberg
Wilhelma Zoological-Botanical Garden, located in Stuttgart's Bad Cannstatt district, is a renowned attraction combining a historic Moorish Revival style castle complex with one of Germany's richest collections of animals and plants. Covering about 30 hectares, it houses approximately 11,500 animals representing around 1,200 species, alongside roughly 6,000 plant species from various climates. Originally built as a royal bathhouse and summer villa for Duke William I of Württemberg in the mid-19th century, its architecture echoes the Alhambra in Granada, Spain, featuring domed halls, greenhouses, and pavilions. After the monarchy's abdication in 1918, Wilhelma transitioned into a public botanical garden and later developed into a zoological garden post-World War II, incorporating diverse animal exhibits including unique primate care such as a gorilla nursery. Today, it is the second largest species collection among German zoos after Berlin Zoo and attracts over two million visitors annually. Wilhelma also supports conservation and scientific research, maintaining a branch in Fellbach where breeding stallions and bulls are kept. The garden's combination of cultural heritage, architectural beauty, and extensive biodiversity makes it a captivating destination for visitors of all ages.
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Tip: Visit Wilhelma during spring or early summer for vibrant botanical displays like magnolia blooms. Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially on weekends and holidays. Take advantage of family and group discounts. Plan your visit to coincide with special events such as 'Wilde Wochenenden' for themed animal feedings and educational programs. Arrive early to enjoy cooler temperatures and quieter paths. Check the official website for daily feeding times and event schedules to enhance your experience.
Interesting facts
- •Wilhelma houses around 11,500 animals from about 1,200 species, making it the second most species-rich zoo in Germany after Berlin Zoological Garden.
- •The garden’s architecture is inspired by the Moorish Alhambra palace in Granada, Spain, featuring distinctive domes, pavilions, and greenhouses.
- •Wilhelma operates a gorilla nursery unique in Europe, where juvenile gorillas rejected by their mothers are hand-reared before returning to their original zoos.
- •The zoo and botanical garden cover approximately 30 hectares, combining extensive animal habitats with diverse botanical collections from all climate zones.
- •Wilhelma was badly damaged during Allied bombings in World War II but was carefully restored and expanded to include zoological exhibits after 1949.
History
Wilhelma's origins date back to 1829 when Duke William I of Württemberg commissioned a Moorish-style royal bathhouse and summer residence inspired by the Alhambra palace.
Construction began in the 1830s under architect Ludwig von Zanth, culminating in a complex with domed halls, greenhouses, and pavilions by 1846.
Following the monarchy's abdication in 1918, Wilhelma became public property and was opened as a botanical garden in 1919.
The site suffered extensive damage during World War II bombings in 1944 but was restored and expanded post-war to include zoological exhibits, evolving into a combined zoological-botanical garden.
Since then, it has grown to become one of Germany's most visited and species-rich zoos, maintaining its historic architectural charm while expanding its scientific and conservation roles.
Place Guide
Historic Moorish Castle Complex1846-1866
The core of Wilhelma is a historic castle complex built between 1846 and 1866 in Moorish Revival style, featuring domed halls, pavilions, and ornamental greenhouses that echo the Alhambra palace. Visitors can admire the intricate architectural details and the harmonious blend of cultural influences.
Animal Exhibits
Wilhelma’s zoological section hosts a wide variety of animals including Asian elephants, Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, gorillas, lions, and many others. The zoo is known for its successful breeding programs and the unique gorilla nursery.
Botanical Gardens
The botanical section includes around 6,000 plant species from diverse climates, housed in greenhouses and outdoor gardens. The collection features tropical plants, orchids, and seasonal flower displays, making it a vibrant and educational experience for visitors.
Contact
Phone: 0711 54020