The Berlin Zoo: Oldest and Most Diverse in the WorldIf you ask any Berliner where to go in the German capital, they will most likely mention the Berlin Zoo. And they are right. Zoologischer Garten Berlin is not just a zoo, but a true legend that has survived wars, destruction, and rebirth. It is older than many world powers and houses more species of animals than any other zoo on the planet. There are no fences, no feeling of confinement, but a wonderful world where humans come as guests to those who live by their ancient laws. This zoo is a symbol of Berlin, its pride, and one of the most visited places in Europe.The Birth of a Legend: Germany's Oldest ZooThe history of the Berlin Zoo began on August 1, 1844, when it opened as the first zoo in Germany and the ninth in the world. Its founder was Professor of Zoology at the University of Berlin, Martin Heinrich Rathenau, and the idea was supported by King Frederick William IV of Prussia, who transferred his pheasantry in the Tiergarten park and several animals from his personal menagerie to the zoo. Since then, the zoo has been a stock corporation - the federal state of Berlin owns only one of the four thousand shares, the rest are in private hands.In 1869, Heinrich Bodinus became the director, initiating the construction of unique \"exotic\" pavilions. And in 1913, a huge aquarium was opened, which for a long time was the largest in the world. By the beginning of World War II, there were about 4,000 animals in the zoo. However, the war was a catastrophe for it: almost all buildings were destroyed, and only 91 of the 4,000 pets survived. But the zoo was reborn from ruins, and today it is considered one of the largest and most diverse in Europe.Richness of Species: The Largest Collection in the WorldThe main uniqueness of the Berlin Zoo is its incredible diversity. Here, about 20,000 animals representing more than 1,200 to 1,500 species live. Thanks to this diversity, it is recognized as the most diverse zoo in the wo ... Read more