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Wilhelma Stuttgart (Zoo and Botanical Garden)
Address
Wilhelma 13, 70376 Stuttgart, Germany
Country
germany
Website
https://www.wilhelma.deOpening Hours
May-August: 8:15-20:00, September-October: 8:15-18:30, November: 8:15-16:30, December: 8:15-15:30, January-February: 8:15-16:30, March: 8:15-18:30, April: 8:15-19:30
Popularity
Very High (2+ million visitors annually - Germany's only combined zoo and botanical garden)
Germany's Only Combined Zoo and Botanical Garden
Royal Heritage Since 1846 Wilhelma Stuttgart represents a unique fusion of zoological and botanical excellence, originally created as King Wilhelm I of Württemberg's private pleasure garden. This extraordinary 30-hectare facility combines over 1,000 animal species with 6,000 plant varieties in an architectural setting inspired by the Moorish Alhambra palace.
Architectural Marvel Designed by Karl Ludwig von Zanth in authentic Moorish style, Wilhelma features historic buildings, ornate pavilions, and stunning greenhouses that create an "Alhambra on the Neckar River." The blend of 19th-century royal architecture with modern conservation facilities creates an unparalleled cultural and natural experience.
Dual Excellence As Germany's only institution combining a full zoo with a botanical garden, Wilhelma offers visitors both wildlife encounters and horticultural splendor. Historic greenhouses house plants over 160 years old from King Wilhelm's original collection, while modern animal facilities provide world-class conservation and education.
Conservation Leadership Wilhelma leads European conservation efforts through breeding programs, botanical preservation, and research initiatives. The facility successfully combines cultural heritage preservation with cutting-edge conservation science and environmental education.
Unique Seasonal Experience The botanical elements provide year-round interest with seasonal displays, from spring azaleas and magnolias to summer tropical plants and autumn colors, making each visit a different experience regardless of season.
Unique Features
- Moorish Architecture - Authentic Alhambra-inspired royal palace and gardens
- Historic Greenhouses - 160+ year old plants from King Wilhelm's original collection
- Dual Institution - Germany's only combined zoo and botanical garden
- Royal Heritage - Original 1846 royal pleasure garden with preserved architecture
- Modern Ape House - State-of-the-art bonobos and gorilla facilities opened 2013
Attractions in Wilhelma Stuttgart (Zoo and Botanical Garden)
Historic Moorish Palace and Gardens
Royal Alhambra on the Neckar River
Authentic Moorish Architecture The crown jewel of Wilhelma, featuring authentic Moorish design inspired by Granada's famous Alhambra palace, creating a unique cultural experience that transports visitors to royal 19th-century splendor.
Palace Features:
- Authentic Moorish design - Inspired by Granada's Alhambra palace
- Historic royal chambers - Original 1846 architecture preserved
- Ornate gardens - Formal landscaping reflecting royal garden traditions
- Cultural immersion - Architectural heritage combined with botanical beauty
- Seasonal displays - Year-round changing exhibitions in historic settings
Royal Heritage: Originally King Wilhelm I's private retreat, combining royal luxury with botanical passion, representing one of Europe's finest examples of Moorish revival architecture.
Cultural Significance: Provides unique insight into 19th-century royal garden culture while serving as architectural inspiration for the entire Wilhelma experience.