Dublin Zoo Celebrates Completion of Historic Cottage Orné Restoration

Completed in 1833 as Dublin Zoo’s original entrance lodge, the iconic thatched Cottage Orné welcomed generations of visitors until the 1960s. While modern entrances now accommodate almost one million visitors annually, the Cottage Orné remains a lasting symbol of Dublin Zoo’s nearly two centuries of history. Following an extensive restoration project, the landmark building has been carefully restored using specialist conservation techniques, traditional craftsmanship and historically appropriate materials, preserving an important piece of Ireland’s built heritage for future generations.

Dublin Zoo Cottage Orné ticketing queue photographed from the 1940’s

Minister Moran joined Carmel O’Connor, President of the Zoological Society of Ireland, and Dr Christoph Schwitzer, Director of Dublin Zoo, to formally mark the completion of the restoration through the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and ceremonial presentation reveal at the Cottage Orné.

Speaking at the event, Minister Moran said:

“Investing in heritage is about much more than repairing old buildings. It is about protecting our shared history, supporting traditional skills and craftsmanship, and ensuring that future generations can enjoy and learn from places like this. Cottage Orné is an important part of Dublin Zoo’s story and of the heritage of Phoenix Park and Dublin itself, and I am delighted to join Dublin Zoo in celebrating the completion of its restoration.”

Minister of State Kevin “Boxer” Moran TD, and Dr Christoph Schwitzer, Director of Dublin Zoo, celebrate the completion of the restoration of the Cottage Orné, the Zoo’s historic 1833 entrance lodge, believed to be the oldest surviving zoo entrance in the world. © Patrick Bolger

Dr Christoph Schwitzer, Director of Dublin Zoo, said:

“The Cottage Orné, believed to be the oldest Zoo entrance still in existence, is a remarkable part of Dublin Zoo’s history and a tangible link to our past. We are proud to celebrate the completion of this restoration project, which preserves an important piece of Ireland’s built heritage while recognising the skilled craftspeople and partners whose expertise made it possible.”

Originally designed by architect William Deane Butler and completed in 1833 at a cost of just £30, the Cottage Orné remains one of Dublin Zoo’s most distinctive and historically significant landmarks. As Dublin Zoo approaches its 200th anniversary in 2031, the restoration ensures this unique structure will continue to share its remarkable story with visitors from Ireland and around the world.

Minister of State Kevin “Boxer” Moran TD, Carmel O’Connor, President of the Zoological Society of Ireland, and Dr Christoph Schwitzer, Director of Dublin Zoo, celebrate the completion of the restoration of the Cottage Orné, the Zoo’s historic 1833 entrance lodge, believed to be the oldest surviving zoo entrance in the world.
© Patrick Bolger

Alongside the restoration, visitors can explore an engaging historical visual timeline at the Cottage Orné, charting its journey from Dublin Zoo’s original entrance lodge to one of the oldest surviving zoo entrances in the world. Through stories, photographs and historical insights, the timeline brings to life nearly two centuries of Dublin Zoo history, highlighting the people, events and changing visitor experiences that have shaped the Zoo since 1833.