Artis Zoo to reopen historic aquarium in June after five-year renovation

Artis Zoo will reopen its monumental aquarium on June 13, 2026, following a five-year, extensive renovation. The zoo is currently preparing the exhibits, arranging aquaria, and installing interactive displays, Artis reported.

In the renewed aquarium, Artis promises “a contemporary story about the importance of water for all life on Earth.” However, the zoo has not yet revealed the full details of the exhibit’s content.

“In the pop-up aquarium, which is behind the scenes, the first aquatic animals returning to Artis are being carefully cared for,” the zoo said. Once fully operational, the permanent tanks will hold one million liters of water, both fresh and salt, where the animals will spend the rest of their lives.

Built in 1882, the Artis Aquarium holds national monument status. The Dutch government, which initially rejected funding, contributed 10 million euros over the past five years to partially fund the restoration work.