Civic Aquarium And Hydrobiological Station Of Milan
The Civic Aquarium and Hydrobiological Station of Milan, also known as Acquario Civico di Milano in Italian, is an educational and recreational facility located in Sempione Park, Milan. The aquarium was opened in 1906, and it is one of the oldest aquariums in Europe. The aquarium is home to a wide variety of aquatic animals, including fish, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. The hydrobiological station is dedicated to scientific research and the conservation of aquatic life.
History of the Aquarium
The idea of building an aquarium in Milan was first proposed in the late 19th century by a group of scientists and intellectuals. The city government approved the project in 1899, and construction began in 1901. The aquarium was designed by the architect Sebastiano Locati and opened to the public in 1906. The aquarium was an immediate success, attracting both locals and tourists.
Over the years, the aquarium underwent several renovations and expansions. In 1923, a new section was added to the aquarium, dedicated to reptiles and amphibians. In the 1950s, a new building was constructed to house the hydrobiological station. In 2006, the aquarium celebrated its 100th anniversary with a major renovation, which included the addition of new tanks and exhibits.
Exhibits and Attractions
The Civic Aquarium of Milan has over 100 tanks, housing more than 100 species of aquatic animals. The aquarium is divided into several sections, each dedicated to a specific habitat or group of animals. Visitors can see colorful tropical fish, sharks, rays, sea turtles, and even piranhas. The aquarium also has a section dedicated to the freshwater fish of the Po River, which runs through Milan.
The reptile and amphibian section of the aquarium is home to various species of snakes, lizards, frogs, and toads. Visitors can see the giant anaconda, one of the largest snakes in the world, and the poison dart frog, one of the most colorful and toxic amphibians in the world.
The hydrobiological station of the aquarium is dedicated to scientific research and the conservation of aquatic life. The station has several laboratories and research facilities, where scientists study the ecology and behavior of aquatic animals. The station also has a breeding program for endangered species, such as the European eel and the Adriatic sturgeon.
Education and Outreach
The Civic Aquarium of Milan is not only a recreational facility but also an educational one. The aquarium offers various educational programs and activities for schools and families. The programs include guided tours, workshops, and hands-on activities, where visitors can learn about the ecosystem and the importance of conservation.
The aquarium also has a library and a multimedia room, where visitors can watch documentaries and learn more about aquatic life. The aquarium also organizes temporary exhibitions and events, such as the Shark Week and the Turtle Festival, to raise awareness about specific issues and promote conservation.
Conclusion
The Civic Aquarium and Hydrobiological Station of Milan is a fascinating and educational facility, where visitors can learn about aquatic life and its conservation. The aquarium has a wide variety of exhibits and attractions, and it offers various educational programs and activities for schools and families. The hydrobiological station is dedicated to scientific research and the conservation of endangered species. The aquarium is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in aquatic life and its preservation.
