Wildlife Park Peter and Paul
Thurgau
Wildpark Peter and Paul is a renowned wildlife park located on the Rosenberg hill northeast of St. Gallen, Switzerland. It serves as a vital recreational area for the city and showcases mostly native animal species such as ibex, chamois, lynx, deer, wild boar, marmots, and wildcats. The park is notable for its large, naturalistic enclosures, some spanning several hectares, which were considered exemplary when established. It is open 24/7 throughout the year with free admission, making it accessible to all visitors. A visitor center and a restaurant with a terrace enhance the visitor experience. Among its unique features are the artificial rock formations built between 1902 and 1917 by sculptor Urs Eggenschwiler, designed to support the ibex population. The park gained fame for its pioneering ibex breeding and reintroduction program, which helped restore the species in the Swiss Alps after near extinction. Modern upgrades in 2017 added new enclosures, an observation platform made of natural stone, an interactive forest playground, and educational stations. The park is wheelchair accessible and allows dogs on short leashes, emphasizing conservation and education.
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Tip: Visit during spring to autumn for the best weather and animal activity. Admission is free and the park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. Paths are wheelchair accessible. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a short leash. Consider visiting the visitor center and restaurant for a fuller experience. No need to purchase tickets in advance due to free entry.
Interesting facts
- •The park's ibex breeding program was one of the earliest and most successful in Switzerland, helping to restore the species after it was hunted to extinction in the 19th century.
- •Artificial rock formations built by sculptor Urs Eggenschwiler between 1902 and 1917 are still in use today to support ibex habitats.
- •The park is open 24 hours a day, all year round, with free admission.
- •The park's terrain offers panoramic views of the canton of Thurgau, Lake Constance, southern Germany, Vorarlberg, and the Alpstein mountains.
- •A planned bear enclosure failed due to political and regulatory issues, despite bears being the city's heraldic animal.
History
The park was established in 1892 by the St.
Gallen section of the Swiss Hunting and Wildlife Protection Association to exhibit native wildlife in a natural setting after an earlier deer enclosure was abandoned.
Initially opened with a small collection of deer, chamois, marmots, and hares, it expanded over the decades, adding specialized enclosures and growing from 3.38 to 4.45 hectares by the 1920s.
It became famous for its successful ibex breeding program initiated in the early 20th century, which involved smuggling young ibex from Italy to reintroduce the species in Switzerland.
The park has faced challenges such as epidemics affecting animal populations and political debates over introducing bears.
Recent renovations in 2017 modernized facilities and added new visitor attractions to celebrate its 125th anniversary.
Place Guide
Ibex Rock Formations1902-1917
Four artificial rock structures created by sculptor Urs Eggenschwiler between 1902 and 1917, designed to simulate natural rocky habitats for ibex breeding and rearing. These structures remain functional and are a distinctive feature of the park.
Visitor Center and Restaurant
Facilities offering educational information about the park's wildlife and conservation efforts, plus a restaurant with a terrace providing panoramic views and local cuisine, rounding out the visitor experience.
Wildlife Enclosures
Spacious naturalistic enclosures housing native species such as chamois, lynx, deer, wild boar, marmots, and wildcats, designed to blend seamlessly with the park's gently rolling landscape.
Observation Platform and Forest Playground2017
Added during the 125th anniversary renovations in 2017, the natural stone observation platform offers scenic views, while the forest playground provides interactive experiences for children.
Contact
Phone: 071 244 51 13
