LIMASSOL ZOO

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

The Limassol Zoo has a long and varied history that encapsulates the city of Limassol today. Located in the city’s heart, it is the oldest zoo on the island. Established in the late 19th century, the zoo had humble beginnings and it operated at first as an aviary for exotic birds. 

ESTABLISHED BY THE BRITISH

The zoo’s origins date back to the days when Cyprus was a British colony. British administrators wanted to create an animal sanctuary for the city to enjoy. After surveying several sites, they chose the public gardens of Limassol as the location for an aviary.

MAKESHIFT ENCLOSURES

A group of like-minded local conservationists and animal lovers were also involved in the new project. They helped to establish the new aviary by making several donations. Proving to be a popular attraction, the aviary opened with a small collection of birds that were initially housed in makeshift enclosures.  

A NEW ATTRACTION

The aviary would eventually receive several visitors from all over the island and new birds were constantly added to its collection. As the facility grew, the enclosure was also improved and the aviary became a major attraction. 

FROM AVIARY TO PETTING ZOO

In the decades that followed, the aviary continued to evolve and grow. This was thanks in part to the dedication and hard work of its administrators, who decided that new animals should be added to the facility. Construction began on new enclosures and several domesticated animals were added to the collection of birds. This created a new petting zoo. As time wore on, the petting zoo grew further and it began to receive other animals from its peers around the world. 

A NEW ZOO

Zoos, from around the world, began to recognise the Limassol zoo’s potential and began to closely collaborate with it. This saw the addition of lions, tigers, monkeys, an elephant, a bear, and various other reptiles. The then Mayor of Limassol in 1956, inaugurated the enclosure, formerly announcing the creation of the Limassol Zoo. 

A POPULAR ATTRACTION

Today, the zoo has undergone a major renovation. The facility boasts state-of-the-art animal enclosures that have been specifically designed to provide each animal with a larger and more naturalistic habitat. It also has a new aquarium, cafeteria, children’s play area, and education centre. The zoo constantly strives to add new exhibits and interactive displays, designed to educate visitors about the importance of conservation and the threats facing wildlife around the world. The zoo over the years has proven to be a popular attraction for all visitors, providing families and school groups with an interesting and educational day out. 

ONGOING CONSERVATION

The Limassol Zoo collaborates with other zoos and wildlife organisations from around the globe. It constantly shares information and resources to further its conservation efforts. This has enabled the zoo to become a centre for wildlife conservation. The zoo actively participates in various breeding programs for endangered species. 

EDUCATION PROGRAMS

The zoo also participates in several education and outreach programs, in collaboration with other educational centres on the island. As a result, it offers a wide range of educational workshops for students and community groups of all ages. Its educational programs also aim to teach visitors about the importance of wildlife conservation and the role that zoos can play in protecting endangered species.   

ZOO WORKSHOPS

The zoo hosts regular events and activities. These include guided tours, animal encounters, and various workshops, engaging visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

THE ZOOS LEGACY

The Limassol Zoo, by conventional standards, only has a small collection of animals but still operates as a world-class wildlife conservation centre. The zoo’s commitment to conservation, education, and outreach has helped create its legacy and has made it a leader in its field.

A THRIVING DYNAMIC INSTITUTION

This popular attraction serves as an example of what can be achieved when people come together to protect and preserve the natural world. What began as a small, humble endeavour, has grown into a thriving, dynamic institution. Remaining a beloved destination, for visitors from all over Cyprus and beyond, the zoo continues to make a difference in the lives of several animals and people alike.