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The renewed ARTIS Aquarium

In 2026, the ARTIS Aquarium will once again open its monumental doors. Within these centuries-old walls, a new story flows—one that immerses visitors in the world of water, the element from which all life springs.

Fish in aquarium

The aquariums, interactive installations, exploration spaces, and artworks each tell part of a larger story.

Water is life

In the renewed Aquarium, you feel that directly and deeply. You’re drawn in by life in the water, only to discover that our dependence doesn’t end there. Life on land cannot do without it—and neither can you. Water connects us all: your own first nine months were spent as a water-being in your mother’s womb, and now you can’t go three days without it. Water provides oxygen in the air, food from the sea, and a stable climate.

Turning wonder into action

“With the restoration of the ARTIS Aquarium, we’re bringing a beloved monument back to life,” says ARTIS director Rembrandt Sutorius. “Since 1882, people have stood here face to face with the magical life beneath the water’s surface. At the same time, we’re proud to have made the building more sustainable. That fits our ambition to be climate positive by 2030. Soon we’ll once again tell the story of water and everything that depends on it—from fish to people. A story that moves you, and hopefully also spurs action.”

little boy looks at sharks in aquarium

The new ARTIS Aquarium lets you see, feel, and understand how everything is interconnected.

No green without blue

Coral in the ocean, an earthworm in a ditch, and even the clouds over Amsterdam are all part of one great water network. That network is more vulnerable than ever. Our oceans, rivers, and lakes are under pressure—polluted, warming, overfished. The Aquarium conveys the urgency to act. You’ll see inspiring examples: coral reefs returning, species flourishing again thanks to protection, and innovative solutions from people who are turning the tide.
Through wonder and insight, the Aquarium makes hearts beat faster and eyes open. This is not just a fantastic collection of fish; it’s a call to connect with our blue planet. In this way, everyone is inspired to live in harmony with nature. Together we strengthen our bond with water—for a livable future for all.
ARTIS employee fundraising
Judith van den Berg Relationship Manager ARTIS

Want to know more? Or interested in supporting the Aquarium? Please contact Judith van den Berg at steunartis@artis.nl or +31 6 51 40 38 11.