INSIDE THE WORLD’S FIRST ZOO.

The article focuses on the treatment and significance of animals in ancient Egypt, particularly at the Predynastic city of Hierakonpolis, where elite members of society kept exotic species that were likely tied to status and ritual practices. Archaeological evidence from the burial site HK6 reveals that animals such as elephants, baboons, leopards, and hippopotamuses were kept alive under harsh conditions, often restrained and subjected to injuries, with some possibly used in sacrificial rituals. The article contrasts this early form of animal collection with the modern zoo concept, highlighting the establishment of Tierpark Hagenbeck in Hamburg, Germany, in 1907, which introduced naturalistic enclosures and remains operational today. This historical overview provides insight into evolving human-animal relationships from ancient symbolic and ritualistic roles to contemporary conservation and exhibition practices. [Extracted from the article]