Patagonian Museum
Río Negro
The Francisco P. Moreno Museum of Patagonia, located in the Civic Center of Bariloche, Argentina, is a distinguished institution dedicated to natural history and cultural anthropology of the Patagonian region. Established in 1940, the museum was designed by architect Ernesto de Estrada and constructed with polished green tuff, cypress, and fitzroya woods, featuring slate roofing. It houses extensive collections categorized into thematic halls including Natural Sciences with fossils and geological specimens; Prehistory with dioramas and relics of Stone Age cultures; Aboriginal History presenting the Mapuche, Selkʼnam, Tehuelche, and Yámana cultures; Regional History tracing early Spanish colonization to the Argentine War of Independence; and exhibits on the Conquest of the Desert detailing 19th-century campaigns and native resistance. Additional sections focus on the local history of San Carlos de Bariloche, the development of Argentina's National Parks with emphasis on Lake Nahuel Huapi, and a tribute to Francisco Moreno, the museum's namesake and pioneer who donated land for Argentina's first national park. The museum also features temporary exhibition halls, an auditorium, a library, and research facilities. Recognized as a National Historic Monument since 1987, it remains a vital cultural and educational resource in Patagonia.
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Consejo: Visit during the Southern Hemisphere's spring and summer months (October to March) for pleasant weather and extended daylight. Booking tickets in advance is advised during peak tourist seasons. The museum offers educational workshops and guided tours that enhance the visitor experience. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Check ahead for temporary exhibitions and special events to enrich your visit.
Datos interesantes
- •The museum is named after Francisco Pascasio Moreno, a pioneering explorer who donated land to create Argentina's first national park, Nahuel Huapi.
- •The Bariloche Civic Center, where the museum is located, is built from polished green tuff, cypress, and fitzroya woods, materials native to the region.
- •The museum houses the skull of the indigenous cacique Cipriano Catriel, a controversial artifact acquired by Moreno.
- •Its collections include exhibits on the Conquest of the Desert, detailing both the Argentine military campaigns and native resistance during the 19th century.
- •The museum serves as a hub for cultural education with a dedicated auditorium, workshop spaces, and a library supporting research and pedagogy.
Historia
Inaugurated on March 17, 1940, the museum was part of the Bariloche Civic Center development commissioned by the Argentine government to promote the remote Río Negro Province.
Designed by Ernesto de Estrada, the building reflects regional materials and architectural style.
The museum's collections were initially sourced from the National Parks Administration by its first director, Enrique Artayeta.
Named after the explorer and academic Francisco Moreno, the museum was expanded and modernized in 1992, enhancing its exhibition spaces and research facilities.
The Civic Center, including the museum, was declared a National Historic Monument in 1987, underscoring its cultural importance.
Guía del lugar
Natural Sciences Hall
Features a comprehensive collection of fossils and geological specimens that illustrate Patagonia's natural history.
Prehistory Hall
Displays dioramas and stratigraphy exhibits showcasing Stone Age cultures and archaeological findings from Patagonia.
Aboriginal History Hall
Exhibits artifacts and cultural items from indigenous groups such as the Mapuche, Selkʼnam, Tehuelche, and Yámana, including astronomical implements.
Regional History Hall
Traces Patagonian history from early Spanish colonization through the Argentine War of Independence with various historical artifacts.
Conquest of the Desert Exhibit19th century
Illustrates the methods and tools used by Argentine governments in 19th-century campaigns to displace native peoples, alongside native resistance artifacts.
San Carlos de Bariloche Exhibit1885 onwards
Focuses on the local history of Bariloche from its founding in 1885 through its development as a ski resort and tourist destination.
National Parks Exhibit1903
Documents the creation and development of Argentina's National Parks, highlighting Lake Nahuel Huapi as the first national park.
Francisco Moreno ExhibitEarly 20th century
Honors the explorer and academic who donated land for the first national park and contributed significantly to Patagonian exploration and conservation.
Contacto
Teléfono: 0294 442-2309