Seepygmy elephants, dinosaur skeletons and Japanese spider crabs at one of thebest natural history museums in Europe. The Natural History Museum (MuseoCivico di Storia Naturale di Milano) is a sprawling institution that exploresalmost every aspect of the natural world, including humanity, vertebrates,invertebrates, mineralogy and palaeontology. Its 23 rooms are spread throughouta grand 19th-century building characterised by arched ceilings and marblecolumns. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the Italian design whilehistory lovers and anyone with an interest in nature could get lost in thefascinating exhibits for hours.
Themuseum was built in 1838 based on the collections of naturalist Giuseppe deCrisforis. Today it encompasses a wide range of topics and a huge collection ofartefacts. Information is provided in English and Italian and is aimed at mostage levels, so that children through to adults can appreciate the displays andlearn something. Pick up a detailed guide to the museum on the way in to gain adeeper appreciation of the exhibits.
Seethe skeletons of two pygmy elephants found in Sicily, an island off the coastof Italy. These rare skeletons are part of the popular palaeontology exhibit.See also dinosaur skeletons such as those of the plateosaurus and stegosaurus.
Thezoology exhibits attract the biggest crowds thanks to two of their most populardisplays, the huge Japanese spider crabs and giant clam. Stroll the taxidermycollection on the second floor to see a range of vertebrates and invertebrates.Look out for the sperm whale that’s 12 metres (40 feet) long.
TheMuseo Civico di Storia Naturale di Milano is closed on Mondays and some publicholidays. There’s a small admission fee. It’s located in the grounds of thebeautiful Gardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli near the historic centre of Milan.Come by metro or pay to park in nearby streets.
