The zoological garden of Berlin and its associated aquarium is situated in the middle of the city, between Hardenbergplatz and the hotel Interconti. It was the first of its type to be constructed in Germany (1841) and was built in the heart of Berlin. It was considered to be the oldest and most modern zoo in Germany. In former times the zoo became famous for its exotic animal environments. Today it is characterised by its generous outdoor installations and bright, airy new buildings. The animal stock consists at present of 15,000 animals with over 1,400 types.

In 1943 the whole garden burned down and was completely destroyed, with only 93 animals surviving. At the end of war the zoo became a battleground, but by the 1 July 1945 the first restocked

cages were re-introduced in the devastated area. These animals had been kept in a safe place during the war. The tropical house which is unique in the world is an attraction for visitors from all over the world and its birdhouse has the largest free flight system in the world with an area of 3,300 square meters. In 1987 the area was extended by 21,000 square meters on the opposite bank of the Landwehrkanal.

In 1983 the aquarium´s front area regained its former glory by the restoration of its mosaics and Saurier reliefs according to the building original plans.

It should be noted that Berlin has another zoo, the Tierpark Friedrichsfelde.