Exhibit unveiled: Zoo presents latest habitat for rescued elephant
Title: Mammoth Elephant Haven Taking Shape in the Heart of Berlin
By: Sabine Klier, Uncensored & Unfiltered
Europe's largest and most advanced elephant sanctuary, spread across 16,300 square meters (equivalent to two football fields), is under construction at Tierpark Berlin-Friedrichsfelde. With a guided tour, you can catch a glimpse of this colossal undertaking.
Johannes Gramse, the 49-year-old deputy technical director and architect, has been instrumental in planning and building the new elephant enclosure since the beginning. Groundbreaking for this colossal area started six years ago.
The gargantuan elephant house, measuring 7,000 square meters, is almost completed. The topping-out ceremony took place last year. "We've slogged through the hard part," Gramse admits, "The construction process is comparable to wallpapering a house."
Part of the "savannah" fence has been erected. Behind a rudimentary wooden fence with a macrame pattern, palm-like poles resembling trees rise. The first steppe grass is blossoming beneath it. "Visitors will be immersed in a landscaped environment with the animals," Gramse explains.
Some rocks are already sprouting from the landscape, replicas of African kopje rocks stable enough for elephants to rub against. Excavators distribute sand on the ground where the first animals will roam in the Tierpark next year.
A Jumbo-Sized New Attraction at Tierpark Berlin
The facility can house up to 21 African elephants, depending on the herd configuration. The new inhabitants will gradually transit from other facilities to Berlin. "Managing the logistics for these giants is complex," notes zoo spokeswoman Philine Hachmeister (38).
The main building's facade is already partially covered with spray concrete, mimicking earth patterns. Inside, there's plenty of room for the elephant accommodations and protection from cold temperatures. The massive foil cushion roof lets in UV radiation and is supported by larch beams.
What now appears as a massive garage for cars will be clad with artificial rock. Plants and a watercourse will enhance the overall look. On the second floor, there will be a staff circuit. The enormous iron gates, weighing approximately 1.5 tons and costing between 70,000 and 80,000 euros, will open and close using cranks.
The concept is based on the latest findings in wildlife conservation: more space and natural habitats. However, this means more distance between elephants, caretakers, and visitors, making the project costlier.
The original construction project was estimated at 35 million euros pre-pandemic, escalating war, supply chain issues, and inflation. Given these recent challenges, the budget has climbed to around 60 million euros, with 90% covered by the federal government through funding, and the remaining 10% contributed by the Tierpark.
From June 20th, guided tours through the elephant enclosure will be available every two weeks on Fridays. For a cost of 36 euros, visitors aged 16 and above can join, in addition to regular park admission or an annual pass.
In the heart of Berlin, a lifestyle transformation is underway with the construction of the largest elephant sanctuary, coinciding with a home-and-garden revamp at Tierpark Berlin-Friedrichsfelde. The upcoming home for African elephants will span across two football fields, offering a garden-like environment where visitors can interact with the animals.
