Audio GuideNational Museum of Natural History

Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle

Centuries-old institution housing rare plant & animal life, dinosaur skeletons & tropical hothouses.

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Welcome to the National Museum of Natural History. Established in nineteen ten and situated in a majestic building completed in nineteen eleven, this institution was crafted by notable architects such as Hornblower and Marshall, Charles Follen McKim, and Daniel Burnham. Initially intended as a public attraction, the museum has evolved into an essential research centre, significantly enhancing our knowledge of plants, animals, human origins, and the natural world.

The museum's collections feature rare plant and animal specimens, extraordinary fossils, and even meteorites amassed over centuries. Visitors embark on a voyage through time with awe-inspiring dinosaur skeletons, including a robust Triceratops and an intriguing Tyrannosaurus rex, alongside renowned treasures such as the illustrious Hope Diamond. The fusion of art and science is apparent in the museum's architecture—from its awe-inspiring rotunda to the exquisite Baird Auditorium with its distinctive tile-vaulted ceiling.

The museum has exerted a profound cultural influence both locally and internationally by demonstrating the rich legacy of natural history. Through interactive exhibits, educational programmes, and continuous scientific research, it continues to enlighten and inspire millions of visitors, making it an essential destination for anyone keen to explore the captivating legacy of nature.

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