Artis, the oldest zoo in the Netherlands, founded in 1838, shows its historical character even before you walk through the gates: two golden eagles are perched proudly atop the main entrance.

Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, Amsterdam
Official website

Artis, the oldest zoo in the Netherlands, founded in 1838, shows its historical character even before you walk through the gates: two golden eagles are perched proudly atop the main entrance. People enjoy the 19th-century atmosphere of the gardens: the winding paths, majestic trees, the fascinating sculptures and the monumental historical buildings. Artis is a haven of peace and quiet right in the city centre of Amsterdam.

Artis is a fascinating zoo. In an area of 14 hectares around 700 species of animals provide a magnificent overview of the entire animal kingdom. Amphibians, reptiles, fish, birds, mammals and insects... all are superbly represented. Artis's renowned Aquarium brings you face to face with ? the secret life of Amsterdam's canals! Around the zoo you'll find many more Dutch and European animal and plant species, as well as more exotic ones. You can also come to quench your thirst for knowledge at the Planetarium, the museums and all kinds of smaller exhibitions.

In addition to being a zoo, Artis is also a botanical garden. Although many of the plants and trees in Artis are native to the Netherlands, many species have been gathered from all over the world, just like the animal species in Artis. As they wander through the zoo, visitors to Artis get a good impression of the diversity of plants, trees and shrubs that make up the plant kingdom. Those species of plants that are not at home in our climate are to be found in greenhouses and heated buildings.

Every year, from January to about May, thousands of bulbs bloom in Artis. These may emerge, like their wild forebears, from areas of grass or between bushes - or they may have been carefully planted out in the flowerbeds and flower tubs. In addition to the familiar tulips, daffodils and crocuses, there are also less well-known species such as the yellow star of Bethlehem, alpine squill, iris and glory of the snow. Even in the winter you can find bulbous plants in bloom, such as the common meadow saffron and the saffron.

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