The Biodome, which also functions as a community space, is a year-round venue featuring exotic plants and a variety of animals, including capuchin monkeys, Bali mynas, and spurred tortoises, director of the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden Endre Sos said at the opening.

Minister of the Living Environment Laszlo Gajdos highlighted the importance of nature conservation, environmental protection, and animal welfare. He stressed that the government has a major responsibility to deliver on its commitments and create a strong environmental portfolio.

He added that animal welfare had never before been addressed at this level, and the issue would now fall under a deputy state secretariat.

Gajdos said that the name "ministry of the living environment" refers to the fact that the entire planet -- the entire living environment - is important, adding that young children generally first encounter biodiversity at zoos, where they can learn to appreciate it all.

In Hungary, there are 13 zoos run by local governments and 50 privately owned ones, attended by more than 4 million visitors each year, he said.

These institutions serve multiple purposes, as their role includes not only promoting recreation and tourism but also conducting scientific research, he added.

Budapest Mayor Gergely Karacsony called the Biodome a symbol, stating that the future will determine whether it will be a symbol of good or of bad.

He recalled that he first became aware of the Biodome’s situation in 2019, including its inadequately prepared planning. Karacsony thanked the zoo staff for not giving up despite the difficult circumstances, but instead creating an urban oasis "with incredible energy and dedication."

Visitors can explore the urban oasis, which opens in the Biodome’s central hall, starting from Wednesday. The site features a waterfall, exotic plants, and moving reconstructions of prehistoric creatures.

Construction of the Biodome began in 2018 and it was scheduled to be completed by 2021.

After years of uncertainty and disputes between the capital city and the government, the Biodome finally opened its doors for the first time in 2024 and has since hosted various events and temporary exhibitions.

More: 
zoobudapest.com

MTI Stock Photo

Source: MTI – Hungary’s national news agency since 1881.

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