Austrian practice Pumar Architekten have won an international competition to create a new aquarium at Vienna’s Tiergarten Schönbrunn – the world’s oldest zoo.

According to the architects, the new facility, which will be located between a rhinoceros enclosure and a rainforest exhibit, will also feature a submerged visitor’s centre with a path leading through a mangrove garden to a large shark tank.

The aquarium’s exterior facilities – set to be created by local studio dieLandschaftsplaner – will be shaped to simulate Alpine scenery, and will include an artificial gorge, plus an aviary for bearded vultures.

Other firms who responded to the call for proposals included 3XN and GERNER GERNER PLUS, whose design concept – entitled “Poseidon’s Realm” – featured a 6,000 sq m complex with four different sections.

The Tiergarten Schönbrunn – also known as the Vienna Zoo – was originally built as a menagerie in 1752 for members of the Habsburg imperial family.

It’s since become one of the world’s most popular public attractions, winning the award for best zoo in Europe in 2009 and 2010.

The aquarium expansion is expected to be completed in 2023.