Natural History Museum and Zoo

The Museum of Natural Sciences and Zoo in Split, located on the slope of Mount Marjan, is one of the city’s most fascinating and versatile cultural institutions. Founded in 1924, this complex offers a unique combination of scientific exhibitions, educational activities, and a variety of animal species, making it a popular destination for families, students, and tourists interested in science and nature. The museum part of the complex is dedicated to the dissemination of natural sciences through a series of permanent and temporary exhibitions. The museum covers a wide range of topics, from geology to biology, paleontology, and ecology. The exhibitions are designed to be interactive and engaging, using models, dioramas, and multimedia displays to illustrate different aspects of the natural world. One of the most fascinating elements of the museum is the collection of fossils, which provides a glimpse into the geological history of the region. Among the most significant finds are fossils of marine organisms dating back millions of years, when the area was covered by a shallow sea. These fossils not only tell the ancient history of the earth but also provide valuable information on the evolution of life. The museum also houses a rich collection of minerals and crystals, from both Croatia and other parts of the world. These specimens are displayed to highlight their unique characteristics, such as shape, color, and structure. Visitors can learn how minerals are formed and the geological processes that create them. Another important section of the museum is dedicated to the flora and fauna of the Dalmatian region. Here, visitors can explore the different species of plants and animals that inhabit the area, learning to recognize the distinctive characteristics of each. Detailed models and photographs help to better understand the local ecosystems and the importance of biodiversity conservation. The museum’s aquarium is another attraction of great interest, especially for children. It houses a variety of marine species, including fish, mollusks, and crustaceans, living in the waters of the Adriatic Sea. The aquarium tanks are designed to replicate the animals’ natural habitats, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe these creatures up close in an environment that simulates their natural habitat. Moving on to the zoological section, the Split Zoo is one of the oldest in Croatia and houses a variety of animal species, both local and exotic. The animals are kept in spacious enclosures that try to replicate their natural environments as much as possible. Among the zoo’s inhabitants are mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians, representing a wide range of biodiversity. An interesting aspect of the zoo is its commitment to the conservation and rehabilitation of animals. Many of the animals housed have been rescued from difficult situations or have been injured and cannot be reintroduced into their natural habitat. The zoo works to ensure that these animals receive the necessary care and live in a safe and stimulating environment. An interesting anecdote about the Museum of Natural Sciences and Zoo in Split concerns the discovery of a rare species of reptile. During one of the research expeditions organized by the museum, scientists discovered an example of the Dalmatian island lizard, a species believed to be extinct. This discovery sparked great interest in the scientific community and highlighted the importance of the museum’s research efforts.