Abstract: The invention relates to a device for recycling xenon in an anaesthesia breathing system comprising a retaining filter adapted to adsorb and desorb xenon and a first conduit connected to the retaining filter for passing a first breathing gas mixture coming from a patient and containing xenon in a first flow direction through the retaining filter, wherein at least part of the xenon remains in the retaining filter. Furthermore, the device comprises a second conduit connected to the retaining filter for passing a second breathing gas mixture in a second flow direction through the retaining filter, wherein at least part of the xenon left in the retaining filter is taken up and carried along by the second breathing gas mixture, and a supply conduit connected to the first conduit for conveying a xenon-containing anaesthetic agent into the first conduit.