Vienna, Austria - September 23, 2024

In a groundbreaking announcement on September 23, 2024, Vienna Zoo, the world's oldest operating zoo, revealed plans for its most ambitious project to date: the Artenschutz-Aquarium Schonbrunn. Set to open in 2028 after a construction period of over two and a half years, this new aquarium will not only immerse visitors in the wonders of the underwater world but also serve as a beacon for species conservation.

Stephan Hering-Hagenbeck, Director of Schonbrunn Zoo, introduced the project at the new Aqua Research Station on MaxingstraSse, emphasizing, "With the new Conservation Aquarium, we aim to create a space that showcases fascinating and threatened habitats while raising awareness for their protection."

The aquarium, which will be the largest in Austria, will house an impressive three million liters of water across various tanks, showcasing diverse aquatic environments from colorful coral reefs to the mysterious deep sea. Highlights include a multi-level shark tank with a six-meter-high viewing window and a 15-meter-long Amazon basin exhibit featuring the giant Arapaima, one of the world's largest freshwater fish.

Technological marvels will abound, with the aquarium boasting Europe's largest jellyfish carousel, showcasing Schonbrunn's expertise in jellyfish breeding, where over 80 species are currently maintained, making it the zoo with the world's largest jellyfish diversity.

Architectural challenges are significant, given the project's location within the UNESCO World Heritage site of Schonbrunn. Architect Manfred Wehdorn highlighted the need for the building to blend with the baroque core zone around the Imperial Pavilion while incorporating modern, eco-friendly, and accessible design principles.

Eva Landrichtinger, General Secretary and representative of the Vienna Zoo Society, stressed the importance of innovation for zoos to remain globally competitive. "This aquarium will not only enchant visitors with the magic of the underwater world but also continue Schonbrunn's legacy in species conservation," she added.

The aquarium's location at the Hietzing entrance will replace the old aquarium, which has reached the end of its service life. During construction, the aquatic inhabitants will relocate to the newly built Aqua Research Station, where Schonbrunn has invested €4.2 million to support long-term research and breeding of rare aquatic species.