Museum of Natural History
Genève
The Natural History Museum of Geneva, located in Malagnou Park, is Switzerland's largest natural history museum and among Europe's largest. It houses more than 15 million specimens of animals, minerals, and rocks from around the world, representing nearly half of the country's natural history collections. The museum is a hub for scientific research, conservation, and education, maintaining a vast scientific library and publishing the Revue suisse de Zoologie since 1893. Its extensive collections include notable contributions from prominent Geneva naturalists and feature unique exhibits such as the two-headed tortoise Janus, a beloved mascot. The museum's displays span four floors and include intricate glass models of invertebrates by Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka. As a publicly funded institution, it offers free access to permanent collections, fostering public engagement with natural heritage. Currently, the museum is closed for renovation and expansion works expected to enhance visitor experience upon reopening.
Plan your trip to Switzerland with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors should plan their visit outside the current closure period for renovations, which lasts until April 2026. It is advisable to check the museum's official website for updates on reopening and temporary exhibitions. Since access to permanent collections is generally free, visitors can benefit from exploring other Geneva museums during this closure. Booking tickets in advance is recommended once the museum reopens, especially for special exhibitions. The best time to visit is during spring to autumn when the city is lively and outdoor areas around the museum are pleasant for walking.
Interesting facts
- •The museum holds more than 15 million specimens, representing nearly half of Switzerland's natural history collections.
- •It is among the ten largest natural history museums in Europe by collection size.
- •The two-headed tortoise named Janus is a famous living exhibit and mascot of the museum.
- •The museum has been publishing the Revue suisse de Zoologie since 1893, contributing to zoological research.
- •It features intricate glass models of invertebrates created by Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka.
History
Founded in 1820, the Natural History Museum of Geneva has evolved through several relocations before settling in its current building constructed in 1970 within Malagnou Park.
Over the centuries, it has grown to become the largest natural history museum in Switzerland, expanding its collections through scientific missions and research.
It has been a center for natural history studies, housing collections from renowned scientists such as Louis Jurine and Christian Hee Hwass.
The museum has continuously modernized its facilities and exhibits, reflecting advances in natural sciences and museology.
Place Guide
Permanent Collections
Spread over four floors, the permanent exhibitions display a vast array of specimens including animals, minerals, rocks, and insect collections such as Hymenoptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, and Hemiptera from Louis Jurine's collection. These exhibits highlight the biodiversity and geological richness of the planet.
Janus, the Two-Headed Tortoise
Janus is a live two-headed tortoise and the museum's mascot, attracting many visitors. This unique specimen symbolizes the museum's dedication to both natural history and engaging public interest.
Blaschka Glass Models19th century
The museum showcases intricate and scientifically accurate glass models of invertebrates crafted by Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka. These delicate models are prized for their artistic and educational value.