Video | Our zoo, our botanical garden

Like many of greater Cairo's residents and visitors from further away, Mada Masr decided to visit Egypt's oldest parks, the Giza Zoo and Orman botanical gardens, after news spread of their impending closure for renovations. We filmed our visit and encounters with other visitors who spoke of their connection to the parks. The complete renovation plans remain unclear, yet have sparked worried discussion over the fate of these unique sites' zoo animals, rare plants, heritage trees and distinctive structures, as well as how it will impact ticket pricing for the general public.

An inventory of the zoo's assets is currently underway, conducted by a committee that includes the Military Production Company for Projects, Engineering Consultancy and General Supplies, which is also part of the consortium carrying out the project. The survey is to be completed by late June or after the Eid al-Adha holidays, at which point the zoo will be closed to the public. Come along with us on our recent outing, and let it inspire you to visit the parks yourself before they're shut.

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