Florina’s Zoo Garden

The idea for the establishment of the Florina Zoo belongs to Konstantinos Bravo, who served as Prefect of Florina from 1967 to 1970.
In the summer of 1967, by decision of the Prefect, the first zoo in Greece was founded on a 40-acre site between the Agricultural School and the cemetery of St. Nicholas:
a) The aim of the zoo was to preserve the fauna of the entire region of northern Greece.
b) The enrichment of all kinds of game from all regions of Greece and abroad.
The whole project consists of special constructions (buildings, shelters, tanks, enclosures) and was completed with financial contributions from the citizens, institutions and businesses of Florina.
The Florina Zoo became open to visitors in 1969. In 1972, the construction of the Zoological Museum, which includes stuffed animals and birds of the Florina region, was founded and construction began. The official opening of the Florina Zoological Garden took place on 21/3/1973.
The Florina Zoo ceased its operation in 2010 and reopened its gates on 18/8/2016 with interventions made to the buildings, the surrounding area and the enclosures, aiming to make the place visitable. A botanical garden, a playground and a climbing wall were also constructed.

TEXT: Spiros H. Papacharisis.
SOURCE: https://www.florinapast.mysch.gr/o-zoologikos-kipos-florinas-kai-i-idrysi-tou-to-1967
SOURCES OF PHOTOS: 1 – 4 Archive of the Municipality of Florina /5 – 15 Christos Tegos