Rebuilding the Iconic "Elephant Gate" at the Hagenbeck Zoo, Hamburg
- Rebuilding the "Elephant Gate" by Hagenbeck
Ready for an exciting journey into the past and future? The legendary "Elephant Gate" of the Hagenbeck Zoo in Hamburg is getting a facelift! This iconic Art Nouveau entrance is not disappearing, but rather, it's being renovated and rebuilt for your enjoyment.
Here's the scoop: The renovation project was announced back in 2018, as it became apparent that the listed building was in need of some major TLC. Part of the masonry was showing signs of deterioration, posing a safety risk. Luckily, the two bronze elephant heads, as well as other figurines, such as a lion, polar bear, a Native American, and an African warrior, have already been safely stored away until the makeover is complete. By May, the complete demolition is due to be wrapped up.
The imaginative "Elephant Gate" was designed by Berlin theater architect and painter Moritz Lehmann and originated between 1902 and 1907. The intricate animal figurines were created by sculptor Josef Pallenberg, and the bronze figures were crafted by Rudolf Pranke. The magnificent gate was forged at Hamburg's H.C.E. Eggers art foundry to introduce visitors to the captivating world of the zoo.
So, mark your calendars, animal enthusiasts! The revamped "Elephant Gate" is expected to welcome visitors next year, allowing you to pass through the hallowed grounds just as you've always known it. Stay tuned for more updates on this transformative project!
- Hagenbeck Zoo
- Hamburg
- The renovation of the iconic "Elephant Gate" at the Hagenbeck Zoo in Hamburg, first designed by Moritz Lehmann in 1902, is being planned under the community policy and employment policy, aiming to ensure the safety of the listed building and preserve its historical significance.
- To ensure the accurate restoration of the "Elephant Gate," the Hagenbeck Zoo has incorporated employment policies that allow experts in masonry and Art Nouveau restoration to work on the project, as intended, following the original designs created by Josef Pallenberg and Rudolf Pranke.
- In light of the renovation of the "Elephant Gate," various employment policies are set in place for the zoo's staff members in Hamburg, providing job opportunities during the construction stage, and preparing them for the grand reopening in the following year, reminiscent of the glorious entrance of the zoo in the early 1900s.
