National Museum of Natural Sciences

The National Museum of Natural Sciences manages and exhibits a significant collection of specimens to the public, with the goal of promoting a more complete understanding of the diversity of the natural world. This knowledge is applied to the conservation of the environment and is transmitted to the community in order to improve the understanding of science and of our natural resources.

King Carlos III created the National Museum of Natural Sciences in 1771 as the Royal Cabinet of Natural History. Throughout history it has changed its name several times. The initial collection of the Royal Cabinet of Natural History consisted of the excellent collections and library owned by Pedro Franco Dávila, a Spanish businessman from Guayaquil who donated them to the Spanish Crown.

The collection contained thousands of minerals, algae, plants, animals of all kinds, stones, and bezoars of physiological origin, tools and arms from various cultures and ages, and artistic objects made of porcelain, crystal, and precious minerals from all continents, ancient bronze pieces, sculptures, medals and headstones, works by famous painters from various schools and countries, miniatures, drawings, watercolours, and enamels. As property of the Crown, the collection increased with purchases and donations until 1984, when it was totally restructured as a modern museum. Since then, its collections have been enhanced. With great historic and scientific value, the Museum is open to the public through permanent, temporary and travelling expositions. The Museum participates in numerous research projects, of which the Atapuerca Project has the greatest international impact.