This is where animal lover Johan Burgers, at the request of friends and acquaintances, opens up his collection of animals to the public in 'Pheasant Park Buitenlust' in 1913. Visitors come from far and near. Because of the far from excellent means of transport, it soon becomes obvious that this location is not ideal for a zoo. In 1923, Mr Burgers moves to Arnhem, where he is able to obtain larger grounds.
Accessibility is much better here, and what's more, future expansion is possible.
His friend Carl Hagenbeck, Managing Director of the Hamburg Zoo greatly inspires Mr Burgers with regard to the design and the construction of the animal park. In 1923 Burgers builds the first quarters for animals of prey in Holland which do not have bars, followed by other large open quarters in the shape of imposing rock masses and valleys. World War II heralds a difficult period for the animal park. After the war, the zoo recovers and there are new possibilities to develop the old ideals. Artificial eco-systems are established, in which the visitors can go on a journey of discovery.