National Museum of Natural History and Science

The National Museum of Natural History and Science in Lisbon, located on the elegant Rua da Escola Politécnica, is one of the main museum institutions in Portugal dedicated to science and natural history. Officially founded in 1926, but with roots dating back to the 18th century, this museum is a melting pot of knowledge and history that offers a wide range of collections and educational activities. The museum’s history is closely linked to scientific education in Portugal. Its origins can be traced back to the Real Museu e Jardim Botânico da Ajuda, created in the 18th century by King Joseph I. These institutions were transferred to the Polytechnic School of Lisbon in 1858, later becoming the National Museum of Natural History in 1861. The transition to the modern name occurred in 2011, when the National Museum of Natural History merged with the Science Museum of the University of Lisbon, creating the Museu Nacional de História Natural e da Ciência (MUHNAC).The collections of MUHNAC are vast and cover various scientific areas, including zoology, botany, anthropology, and geology. One of the most impressive sections is anthropology, which houses one of the most extensive and well-documented collections of human skeletons in the world. This collection, started in the 1980s, includes about 1700 human skeletons, mainly from the cemeteries of Lisbon, providing valuable research insights into the history of the Portuguese population and their living conditions over the centuries.Another highlight of the museum is the herpetology collection, which includes about 3,100 amphibian and reptile specimens, mainly from Portugal, but also from other regions of the world such as Africa and Latin America. This collection is essential for the study of biodiversity and endemic species of the Iberian Peninsula and Africa.The museum is also known for its beautiful botanical garden, created in the 19th century on the site of the former Real College of Nobles. The garden, inaugurated in 1878, is an oasis of peace in the heart of Lisbon and hosts a wide range of plant species from around the world, offering an ideal setting for educational walks and outdoor activities.One of the most tragic events in the museum’s history was the devastating fire of 1978, which destroyed much of the zoological and geological collections, as well as seriously damaging the building of the old Polytechnic School. Despite this serious loss, the museum managed to rebuild and enrich its collections, maintaining its leading role in scientific dissemination and the conservation of natural heritage. One of the most fascinating attractions of the museum is its astronomical observatory, which offers visitors the opportunity to explore the night sky through powerful telescopes and participate in observation sessions guided by experts. This observatory, located in a privileged position on the hill of the Polytechnic School, is a landmark for astronomy enthusiasts and anyone wishing to delve into the world of stars.MUHNAC is also home to an important chemical amphitheater, used for scientific demonstrations and public lectures. This historic space, dating back to the 19th century, still retains its charm and functionality today, offering a unique venue for scientific dissemination and education.