Wilhelma Garden, Stuttgart

Wilhelma Garden in Stuttgart offers a unique blend of zoological and botanical treasures, set against the backdrop of a historic castle in the Bad Cannstatt district. Established in 1846 and styled in the Moorish Revival architecture reminiscent of the Alhambra, the garden spans approximately 30 hectares. It is one of Baden-Württemberg’s leading tourist destinations, attracting over 2 million visitors each year.

As Germany’s only zoological-botanical garden, Wilhelma is renowned for its vast collection, housing about 11,500 animals from roughly 1,200 species and approximately 6,000 plant types from various climates. This diversity places it second only to the Berlin Zoological Garden among Germany's zoos in terms of species richness.

The historical park, dating back to its inception under King Wilhelm I of Württemberg, survived significant damage during the Second World War. Post-war renovations transformed it from a purely botanical site into the current zoological botanical complex, preserving the grandeur of the past while expanding its educational and conservation roles.

Wilhelma is notable not only for its extensive animal collection but also for its botanical offerings, including a magnolia grove considered the largest north of the Alps, and a Moorish Garden with the world’s largest water lilies. These lilies are strong enough to bear up to 70 kilograms on a single leaf. The garden also boasts historic giant sequoia trees dating back to the mid-19th century.

The appeal of Wilhelma lies in its year-round attractions, from the vibrant spring blooms to the warmth of the greenhouses during the colder months, making it a destination that offers both educational experiences and natural beauty in every season.