Pairi Daiza, Zoo and botanical garden in Brugelette, Belgium.
Pairi Daiza covers roughly 65 hectares near the Dender river and presents over 7000 animals from different continents in nine themed sections. The grounds combine animal habitats with garden design and display plants and structures inspired by several world regions.
In 1148 twelve Cistercian monks founded Cambron Abbey at the site after being invited by Anselm of Trazegnies. The grounds were transformed into a zoological and botanical park in the late 20th century.
The Chinese garden, established in 2006, stands as Europe's largest with traditional architecture, red pandas, cranes, and extensive plant collections from Eastern Asia.
Access is through the main entrance at Brugelette with parking nearby and paved paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Plan several hours for a full tour because the nine zones spread over a large area.
Since 2014 two giant pandas have lived at the park under a 15-year loan agreement with China. The animals are part of an international breeding program for the species.
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