Pecs Zoo, Pecs

The Pecs Zoo & Aquarium-Terrarium is a compact yet historically significant zoological park in Pecs. Established in 1960, it is nestled in the Mecsek Mountains above the city, originally forming part of the now-defunct Mecsek Cultural Park, which also housed an amusement park (opened in 1961) connected to the zoo by a 570-meter-long light railway.

The zoo was built between 1959 and 1961, largely by student volunteers under a socialist labor scheme. It officially opened on August 19, 1960, though construction finished in 1961. A memorial plaque notes 45,367 labor hours. Chosen for its natural setting, the zoo originally housed a terrarium, aquarium, and large carnivores like lions, tigers, and bears. Over time, space limitations led to many animals being relocated, and by the early 2000s, only a few large species remained, with some enclosures renovated.

In 1985, to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the zoo, the Aquarium-Terrarium was established separately in Pecs’ medieval cellar system, allowing for a controlled tropical environment. Over the years, concerns arose regarding the zoo's impact on the local water system, prompting discussions about relocation or closure in the 2000s.

The Pecs Zoo spans 3.5 hectares, making it one of Hungary’s smaller zoological parks. It houses approximately 250 animals from 57 species, including lions, monkeys, kangaroos, camels, hippos, zebras, and Falabella miniature horses. The zoo receives around 100,000 visitors annually.

A major reconstruction project expanded the zoo and reintegrated the Aquarium-Terrarium into the main site. Notable additions include a 100,000-liter aquarium introduced in 2016 and new species such as monitor lizards (Varanus salvadorii) and a cougar from Athens. Planned future arrivals include seals, tigers, brown bears, leopards, zebra sharks, and requiem sharks.