Vivarium Darmstadt, Zoo with aquarium and terrarium complex in Darmstadt, Germany.
Vivarium Darmstadt is a facility with aquatic and terrestrial enclosures spread across around 100,000 square meters, home to over 700 animals from roughly 150 species in specially designed buildings and outdoor areas. The grounds combine open spaces with indoor structures including a tropical hall, aquarium, and reptile house in a continuous layout.
The facility began in 1956 as a school vivarium in the Orangerie garden, then moved to its current location in 1965 where engineer Rolf Prange could implement a modern design. The relocation allowed for greater expansion and specialized buildings for different animal groups.
The name Kaupiana honors naturalist Johann Jakob Kaup and reflects the connection between scientific work and animal care that shapes the place. Visitors experience this directly while moving through the different houses, watching animals in habitats that mirror their natural homes and learning about where they come from.
The grounds are well-equipped with pathways and different sections that are easy to explore on foot, even for visitors with mobility concerns. Benches and rest areas are spread throughout, and information signs help you understand the animals and where they come from.
The Australian marsupial enclosures offer unusual closeness: visitors can interact directly with Bennett wallabies in a dedicated area, bringing these animals within reach of the audience. This type of encounter is not available at every zoo and shapes the experience on site.
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