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ARTIS

Step into a world where nature, history, and wonder meet at **ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo**, the oldest zoo in the Netherlands, founded in 1838. Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, ARTIS is far more than a traditional zoo—it’s a living museum where families and curious travelers can explore nearly two centuries of heritage alongside 750 animal species, lush botanical gardens, and striking historic architecture. Wander leafy avenues lined with centuries-old trees, marvel at giraffes and zebras grazing together on the savannah, and let your imagination soar in the largest planetarium in the Netherlands. ARTIS also invites you to discover the magical Butterfly Pavilion, gaze at jaguar cubs and chimpanzees, or dive into the fascinating world of microbes in ARTIS-Micropia, the world’s first microbe museum. Children and adults alike will be captivated by interactive exhibits and educational programs that spark curiosity about the natural world, biodiversity, and conservation. With its blend of tranquil gardens, unique animal encounters, and rich historical legacy, ARTIS offers an unforgettable adventure—an oasis of discovery in the vibrant heart of Amsterdam.

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<think> Looking at the search results, I can see this is ARTIS zoo in Amsterdam, specifically at Plantage Kerklaan 38-40. Let me extract the key unique facts: 1. Founded in 1838 by three men known as "the three Ws" - Gerard Westerman, J.W.H. Werlemann and J.J. Wijsmuller 2. Full name is "Natura Artis Magistra" meaning "nature is the teacher of art and science" 3. Has three gates with the words 'Natura', 'Artis', and 'Magistra' written above each - most people only used the middle gate with 'Artis' so that's how it got its common name 4. The last quagga in captivity died here on August 12, 1883 - nobody realized it was the last one until years later because all zebras were called quaggas at the time 5. Originally opened only to members, then public in September 1851, became year-round public in 1920 but September remains discount month 6. Built on the "Middenhof" estate in the Plantage area, which was then on the outskirts of Amsterdam 7. The Heimans Oak dates back to 1750 - one of Amsterdam's oldest living treasures 8. Has 26 historically significant listed buildings 9. When Bristol Zoo closed in 2022, ARTIS became the 5th oldest zoo in the world 10. The Aquarium was built in 1882 and is under renovation until 2026 11. Has an old pub called 'Eik en Linde' that became the wolf house, now houses African painted dogs I need to follow the personalization requirements - friendly local, casual enthusiastic tone, use audio tags, start with a specific detail opening (not "You know what's..." or "Did you know..."), and make it about 1 minute/112 words. Key requirements to hit: The Heimans Oak whispers stories of Amsterdam's rich zoological history, standing tall since 1750 within ARTIS zoo's grounds. Imagine the middle gate, adorned with 'Artis', welcoming visitors to a place where nature teaches art and science. Founded by the legendary "three Ws" in 1838, this zoo holds remarkable tales - like the poignant story of the last quagga, unknowingly breathing its last in 1883. From exclusive membership to a public treasure, ARTIS has transformed, now ranking as the world's 5th oldest zoo, with 26 historic buildings preserving its incredible legacy. I'm standing in a historic landscape where an ancient oak predates the zoo, silently witnessing centuries of transformation. The Heimans Oak, rooted since 1750, anchors this remarkable place that opened publicly in 1851. September still echoes with the original spirit of accessibility, offering discounts that connect today's visitors to the zoo's early days.

Did You Know?

  • ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo, established in 1838, is not just the oldest zoo in the Netherlands but also served as a secret refuge during World War II, hiding Dutch Jews and resistance fighters within its grounds—a lesser-known chapter in its storied past.
  • Among ARTIS's 27 national monuments is the historic Aquarium building from 1882, currently under renovation until 2026, which stands as a testament to Amsterdam’s golden age of exploration and scientific curiosity, blending zoology with architectural heritage.
  • The zoo is famously known as 'ARTIS' because of its three entrance gates, each inscribed with one word of its original Latin name, 'Natura Artis Magistra' (Nature is the Teacher of Art); over time, visitors began calling it simply 'Artis' after the middle gate most commonly used for entry.
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