Amazon’s Jardim Zoobotânico da Amazônia Celebrates 142 Years as Urban Sanctuary
Belém, Brazil – November 14, 2023 – The Jardim Zoobotânico da Amazônia, also known as Rodrigues Alves Forest Park, is marking 142 years of preserving the Amazon’s rich biodiversity and historical legacy within the bustling city of Belém. The 15-hectare park, a vital green lung for the region, has transitioned from a site of resource exploitation to a model of ecological symbiosis, offering a unique blend of environmental protection, education, leisure, and research.
Established over a century ago, the park currently safeguards over 10,000 trees representing more than 300 species, alongside 435 animals encompassing 29 species, including iconic Amazonian wildlife like manatees, crocodiles, sea turtles, macaws, and various monkey species. More than 80% of the park’s area is dedicated to green space, with the remaining 20% comprising visitor trails.
Recent renovations have revitalized historical landmarks within the park, most notably the Fonte dos Intendentes, a fountain constructed in 1906 showcasing European architectural influences from the rubber boom era. The restored fountain now features busts honoring key figures instrumental in the city’s growth.
“The Amazon Zoo and Botanical Garden has made notable progress in educating the public about environmental protection,” reports CNN Brazil. The park actively engages in wildlife rescue and cultivates native tree species, contributing to urban greening initiatives throughout Belém. Beyond its captive animal population,the park’s extensive woodland provides a crucial habitat for a diverse range of free-roaming wildlife.
The Jardim Zoobotânico da Amazônia is open to the public from 8 am to 5 pm, Tuesday through Sunday.Admission is just 2 reals, with free entry for children under 6 and seniors over 60.
The park stands as a testament to the evolving relationship between urban development and environmental stewardship in the Amazon region, demonstrating a commitment to protecting both natural and cultural heritage for generations to come.
(Source: South American Overseas Chinese News Network, November 14, 2023. Original reporting based on CNN Brazil, November 12, 2023.)