Lisbon Zoo

The Lisbon Zoo, inaugurated on May 28, 1884, is one of the most beloved and visited institutions in the Portuguese capital. Located in the Sete Rios district, this zoo is not only a place of leisure and entertainment, but also a center for conservation, education, and scientific research that plays a crucial role in protecting biodiversity. The foundation of the zoo dates back to the late 19th century, when a group of naturalists, scientists, and businessmen, led by Dr. Pedro Van Der Laan, decided to create a zoological garden in Lisbon. The idea was to offer the public the opportunity to get up close to exotic animals and promote nature education. The zoo’s first site was located in Parque de São Sebastião da Pedreira, but in 1905 it was moved to its current location in Sete Rios, a larger area better suited to the animals’ needs.One of the most fascinating aspects of the Lisbon Zoo is its collection of animals, which includes over 2,000 specimens belonging to about 300 different species. Among the most famous inhabitants of the zoo are Asian lions, giraffes, African elephants, and plain gorillas. The variety of species represented reflects the zoo’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and the protection of endangered species.The park is organized into different thematic areas that recreate the natural habitats of the animals. Among the main attractions is the “Savannah,” a vast area that houses African animals such as zebras, giraffes, and rhinoceroses. There is also the “Gorilla Valley,” an area specially designed for plain gorillas, with large green spaces and structures that allow the animals to express their natural behaviors. Other notable areas include the “Elephant House,” the “Tropical Forest,” and the “Dolphin Bay,” where visitors can watch dolphin and sea lion shows.During the Salazar dictatorship, the zoo was a popular leisure spot for Portuguese families. In the years following the Carnation Revolution of 1974, the zoo continued to evolve, adapting to new scientific knowledge and best practices in animal care. Today, it is considered one of the best zoos in Europe, recognized for its commitment to conservation and education.An interesting anecdote concerns the birth of the first gorilla in captivity in Portugal, which took place in 1996 at the Lisbon Zoo. This event was a significant milestone for the zoo and a symbol of the success of its captive breeding programs. The birth of the baby gorilla, named “N’Dala,” attracted media and public attention, highlighting the importance of the zoo’s work in conserving endangered species.