Antwerp Zoo
In March 2007 my sister and I chanced upon Antwerp Zoo. Having grown familiar with Brussels' old town and spent a day in Brugge we ventured out to Antwerp to see the sights and to complete our Belgian trip. We hadn't prepared an itinery or had any prior knowledge of the picturesque town but the man at the train station ticket counter lured us in with talk of the zoo, that and if we were feeling particularly glamorous; jewel shopping. We later found the "jewels": an extensive array of diamond and gold jewellers shops but sadly our budget did not allow for that.
On our arrival to Antwerp we alighted at the train station before Antwerp Central Station. This is a good move for travelers interested in architecture as Antwerp Village is home to some fantastical buildings mostly residential in nature. The walk through the village is pleasant with a tramline which flows down the centre. It takes less than thirty minutes to reach the central station of which the zoo sits to the immediate right.

The entrance gate stand impressively tall, built in 1843 Antwerp Zoo has maintained so many original features. This was the first time I had visited a city zoo, raising questions of size and quality. However, I was nothing short of amazed at the juxtaposition of 18th century style and modern technological exhibits. The zoo is a true delight. We arrived just after midday but I would recommend setting aside a full day in order to experience it in it's entirety. As we were ushered out just after closing time, I was sure that we hadn't taken it all in.
Unlike parks and zoos elsewhere Antwerp Zoo has a diverse range of animals all housed in theatrical buildings. The giraffes for example live in the Egyptian Temple the style of which is based on the 1854 "Egyptian Court" at the Crystal Palace Exhibition, London. Hippotopia is an example of the zoos biotope exhibits where swamp land has been recreated and birds are allowed to roam free.

The zoo not only offers such attractions as the Reptile House, Bird House, Nocturama (for anyone afraid of the dark and what lurks there, beware), Vriesland (or Freezeland, home to the penguins) and the Planetarium it is also peppered with 18th century architecture, beautifully maintained gardens and sculptures.

Interaction is another popular element here, with feeding/petting sessions & childrens playground with educational toys. There are also animal shows which can be seen at regular intervals. Concerts are sometimes also held in the Winter Garden area of the zoo or in the designated concert hall, therefore broadening the appeal further.
Antwerp zoo therefore is a treasure and well worth a visit. The scope and variety of things to see and do plus the charming style made my experience one worth sharing.

www.hollie-miller.com