Sustainable Strategies for the Conservation and Transformation of Zoological Gardens: The 20th Century Naples Zoo as a Case Study

This paper examines the historical, architectural, and conceptual evolu-tion of the zoological gardens, from its origins as a space of spectacle and domina-tion over nature to its contemporary redefinition considering ethical and scientific advancements. Rooted in ancient traditions of enclosed gardens, early menageries served as displays of power, where exotic animals were exhibited for elite audi-ences. The emergence of the ‘scientific zoo’ in the 19th century marked a shift towards public education and research, yet retained an anthropocentric framework centered on human observation. Architectural innovations – such as Hagenbeck’s panoramic, cage-free enclosures and the modernist designs of the Tecton group – sought to enhance the visitor experience, though often at the expense of animal agency. A significant paradigm shift emerged with Price’s Snowdon Aviary in the 1960s, which prioritized animal behaviour and movement, signaling a new approach to zoo design focused on multispecies coexistence. Contemporary zoos now face a dual challenge: preserving their historical architectural heritage while responding to evolving ethical imperatives regarding animal welfare. This tension is exemplified in the case study of the Naples Parco Faunistico, where rationalist architectural principles coexist with outdated enclosures. A proposed integrated methodology, combining archival research, architectural analysis, and conserva-tion strategies, aims to reimagine the zoo as a dynamic, ethically responsible cultural institution. Finally, speculative and artistic projects propose alternative models for human-animal interaction, challenging traditional notions of captivity and enclosure. These reflections point towards a necessary rethinking of the zoo’s spatial and cultural role in the contemporary urban landscape.