San Antonio former zoo transformed into botanical park

The former San Antonio zoo in Fray Mamerto Esquiú, Catamarca, has been transformed into a botanical park following years of abandonment. For nearly three decades, the 1.5-hectare site served as an open-air landfill, accumulating debris, tires, and scrap metal after the zoo closed in 1994.

The revitalization project, led by the local municipality, involved several years of work and more than 20 cleaning operations. The new space features walking paths, a pond, a vegetable garden, and insect hotels, designed to serve as an outdoor classroom for environmental education.

According to the Secretary of Production and Environment, Lucas Perelló, the initiative aims to recover the collective memory of the community and promote respect for animals and the environment.