Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe
Bulawayo
The Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe, located in Bulawayo on Leopold Takawira Avenue, is the country's only natural history museum and a leading institution in Southern Africa. Designed by architect James Whalley and opened in 1964, the museum features nine public display galleries that illustrate Zimbabwe's history, mineral wealth, and wildlife. Notable exhibits include the second largest mounted elephant in the world and extensive geological collections with over 15,000 rock, gem, and crystal specimens. The museum also houses specialized departments such as Arachnology, Entomology, Ornithology, Mammalogy, Herpetology, Ichthyology, Paleontology, Geology, and Archaeology, each with significant research collections. Visitors can experience a walk-through mine exhibit, the Hall of Kings focusing on the Ndebele State, and the Hall of Man that traces human development from early hominids. The museum serves as a vital center for research and education, with facilities including a lecture hall and cafeteria, making it a key cultural and scientific attraction in Zimbabwe.
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Consejo: The best time to visit is during weekdays to avoid crowds, and it is advisable to check the museum's official website or contact them for updated opening hours and special events. Advance booking is recommended for group visits or lectures. The museum offers educational programs and occasional environmental talks and documentaries, providing enriching experiences for visitors. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Visitors should allow ample time to explore the diverse galleries and research exhibits.
Datos interesantes
- •The museum houses the second largest mounted elephant in the world.
- •Its geology collection includes rare Zambia Broken Hill lead/zinc minerals and kermesite specimens.
- •The entomology department holds over 5 million insect specimens, one of the largest in Africa.
- •The ornithology department contains the largest and most important bird skin, nest, egg, and skeleton collection in Africa.
- •The museum building is an impressive circular structure designed by architect James Whalley.
Historia
The museum originated in 1902 as the Rhodesia Museum, initially housed in the Bulawayo Public Library, following a request to Cecil Rhodes to establish a place to house mineral collections.
It moved to a former chapel in 1905 and was officially opened in 1910 by Prince Arthur.
The government acquired it in 1936, renaming it the National Museum of Rhodesia.
Construction of the current building began in 1960 at Centenary Park, officially opening in 1964.
In 1981, it was renamed the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe, consolidating natural science collections from other national museums.
Guía del lugar
Mennell Gallery (Geology and Paleontology)1964
This gallery houses over 15,000 rock, gem, and crystal samples, including rare minerals. It features a walk-through mine exhibit simulating a typical Zimbabwean mine and displays unique dinosaur fossils and early mammals.
Donald Broadley Gallery (Herpetology)
Dedicated to reptiles and amphibians, this gallery displays mostly preserved specimens and a few live snakes. It honors Dr. Donald Broadley, the first curator of the herpetology department established in 1956.
Hall of Kings
This hall presents the history of Zimbabwe with a focus on the Ndebele State and Matebele people, highlighting their cultural heritage and historical significance.
Hall of Man
Exhibits human development from early hominids to modern times, illustrating the evolution and cultural progress of humans in the region.
George Arnold Entomological Laboratory1911
Home to over 5 million insect specimens, this laboratory supports both public displays and research, emphasizing the diversity of insect life in Zimbabwe and neighboring regions.
Contacto
Teléfono: (029) 2250045