Natuurhistorisch Museum Rotterdam

Natural history in Museumpark

The Natuurhistorisch Museum Rotterdam is located in Museumpark, inside the historic Villa Dijkzigt, a mansion built in 1852.

In 1995, the building was expanded with a modern glass pavilion that contrasts with the original architecture of the villa.

What began as a small natural history collection gradually developed into a museum dedicated to the animal world, fossils, biodiversity and urban nature.

A journey through nature and its species

Its galleries feature exhibitions dedicated to the animal world, biodiversity and the natural environment.

The collections include taxidermied birds and mammals, butterflies, insects, skeletons, shells and fossils.

Among the highlights are the skeleton of a sperm whale measuring around 15 metres in length and the complete skeleton of an elephant.

The museum also pays particular attention to urban nature and to the species that live in Rotterdam and other cities in the Netherlands.

Exhibitions and activities

In addition to its permanent collection, the museum organises temporary exhibitions, educational activities, lectures and special programmes for children.

Its approach combines traditional natural history with current themes related to biodiversity, evolution and the relationship between nature and the city.

Natuurhistorisch Museum Rotterdam: practical information

What to see near the Natuurhistorisch Museum

Its location in Museumpark makes it easy to combine your visit with other nearby cultural attractions, such as the Kunsthal, the Chabot Museum and Het Nieuwe Instituut.

Other museums in Rotterdam

40-45 NOW | Chabot Museum | Douane Museum | Fenix Museum | Het Nieuwe Instituut | Kunsthal | Kunstinstituut Melly | Mariniers Museum | Maritiem Museum | Museum Boijmans | Nederlands Fotomuseum | Wereldmuseum