The National Museum of Natural History and Science (MUHNAC) is an institution that helps to spread the understanding of nature and science. It is located in the centre of Lisbon (more specifically in Rua Politécnica) in the charming and leafy Principe Real. The Museum forms part of the University of Lisbon.
Visitors flock to the museum for its fascinating collections, especially in the fields of zoology, anthropology, botany, mineralogy, geology and other natural sciences. You will find interesting facts about dinosaurs and whales, as well as exhibitions showing the origin of life through interactive exhibits. Try your hand at identifying different minerals, and explore the models of the planets and collections of insects and fossils.
There are also a number of laboratories that are worth visiting. One displays a large butterfly collection, while another is a chemistry laboratory with a unique amphitheatre where live demonstrations were once held – important for its historic value.
The Botanical Garden houses various horticultural specimens of native and non-native plants. It is a place where people can relax and enjoy watching birds and the diversity of palm trees as well as tropical species originating from New Zealand, Australia, China, Japan and South America.
The museum also has a space for artistic exhibitions, conferences, debates, workshops and courses, so make sure you check for new exhibitions.
