The zoo was founded on July 12, 1936, by Vlada Ilić, the mayor of Belgrade at the time.
The zoo survived significant damage during the Allied bombing of Belgrade in 1944, which resulted in the loss of many animals.
It is home to Muja, an American alligator that has been in the zoo since 1937, making him one of the oldest living captive alligators in the world.
The facility maintains a specialized program for the breeding of white tigers and white lions.
The zoo's layout is shaped by the topography of the Kalemegdan fortress moat and surrounding ramparts.
It serves as a rescue and rehabilitation center for injured wildlife found within the Serbian region.
Belgrade Zoo, officially known as the Garden of Good Hope, is situated within the historic Kalemegdan fortress complex. Established in 1936, the zoo covers approximately seven hectares of urban space. It houses a diverse collection of animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, zebras, and various species of reptiles and birds. The zoo is noted for its focus on preserving rare white species, including white lions and white tigers. Its location inside a medieval fortress walls provides a distinct architectural backdrop for its enclosures. The facility operates as an educational and conservation center for regional wildlife. It features landscaped pathways and gardens that integrate with the surrounding parkland.
The raised viewing platforms near the white lion enclosures offer unobstructed views with the fortress walls in the background.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain involves walking on uneven cobblestone and sloped paths within the fortress.
Visit during feeding times, which are often scheduled for specific carnivores, to see the animals at their most active.
Bring a water bottle, as the site covers a large area with limited drink vendors near the secondary enclosures.
Visiting during the peak heat of mid-summer afternoons when animals are least active and resting out of sight.
Do not feed the animals, do not tap on glass enclosures, and keep noise levels low near sensitive species.
