See a number of fascinating exhibits, watch 19th-century experiments and learn about Portugal’s prehistory in the National Museum of Natural History. This high-vaulted stone-and-marble building holds its own historic significance, dating back to the 1800s. It has always belonged to the University of Lisbon, meaning that it conserves and is still the site of a great deal of research.
Enjoy the traces of this history amongst a number of human and paleontological exhibits. Wander the old science lab to see the tools used by experimenters throughout the 19th century. These ancient technological apparatuses are authentic, having been preserved from a university laboratory that once operated here.
Nearby, on the first floor, the dinosaur exhibit is one of the most popular displays in the building. Delight in near-complete skeletons of these extinct giants, reconstructed and on display. Throughout the museum, let your mind wander with striking wildlife photography, models of our solar system and displays of insects and fossils.
On the upper levels, young adults and curious visitors will enjoy performing real experiments at an interactive physics exhibit. Each experiment is accompanied by a written guide, which explains the experimental process. Next door, try your hand at a number of challenging maths games. Helpful English-speaking attendants are available to answer questions in both rooms.
In some parts of the museum, see evidence of the ongoing university research that takes place here. In fact, more than 1,692 human skeletons, collected from the 19th century onwards, are still being documented in-house.
After exploring the exhibits, get some fresh air in the Botanical Gardens next door. This traditional garden features plant species from around Europe and is a great place to relax by the river.
Find the National Museum of Natural Historyon the University of Lisbon campus in the Principe Real district. Public buses serve the area, though it can easily be reached on foot from the city centre. The museum is open daily except Monday. No admission is charged.
