Wilhelma, Zoo and botanical garden in Bad Cannstatt, Stuttgart, Germany
Wilhelma is a zoo and botanical garden in Bad Cannstatt, Stuttgart, spreading across 30 hectares with around 11,500 animals representing 1,200 species and 6,000 plant varieties. The site combines animal enclosures with greenhouses and historic structures built in Moorish Revival style, all connected by pathways and ponds.
King Wilhelm I of Württemberg commissioned the grounds in 1842 as a royal bathhouse with Moorish pavilions and gardens. After World War II the site gradually transformed into a public zoo and botanical garden open to visitors.
The name honors King Wilhelm I of Württemberg, who envisioned the grounds as a private retreat inspired by the palaces of southern Spain. Today families stroll through pathways lined with exotic pavilions and greenhouses decorated with arches, ornaments and detailed columns that recall Moorish craftsmanship.
The grounds open every day at 8:15 AM and close between 4:30 PM and 8:00 PM depending on the season. The pathways work for strollers and wheelchairs, though some sections have slopes and it helps to plan time for breaks.
The garden holds the largest magnolia collection in Europe, which blooms in spring with shades of pink and white. A pond displays Victoria water lilies whose leaves grow strong enough to support the weight of a child.
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