Mediterranean Moments at Wilhelma

Bathed in sunshine and sheltered from cold winds, Wilhelma’s Subtropical Terraces offer a slice of the Mediterranean in the heart of Stuttgart. Here, plants that rarely survive Central European winters—like fig trees, evergreen magnolias, and bitter oranges—thrive in carefully cultivated conditions.

From May to October, more than 450 potted plants and 50 planted terracotta urns transform the terraces into a lush, multi-level garden bursting with life. Water features, ivy-covered sandstone walls, and slender cypresses lining the spiral staircase leading to the Belvedere Pavilion complete the southern European charm.

At a glance:
Animal species: parrots, northern bald ibises, squirrel monkeys
Plant species: magnolia, fig, bitter orange, wisteria, cypress, seasonal flowering plants

Birdsong Among Blossoms
More than 20 aviaries, built into the terraces in 1984, house rare and colorful parrot species from four continents. Thanks to heated indoor enclosures, the birds can be seen year-round, retreating indoors during colder months. A large aviary is also home to the northern bald ibis, an endangered bird with a striking prehistoric appearance.

Nearby, squirrel monkeys add energy and playfulness to this vibrant area.

Seasonal Splendor
The decorative palm trees and many of the heat-loving subtropical plants appear only in summer. These large specimens are carefully moved onto the terraces using cranes and returned to their winter greenhouses in autumn.

Every year, over 10,000 plants of 150 species are cultivated just for the floral displays in this space—offering a continually changing, photogenic setting that enchants visitors throughout the warm season.