The Museum of Natural Sciences of Barcelona, also called the Museu Blau, is in Parc del Fòrum in the Sant Martí district. Its exhibits trace the story of Earth and life through fossils, minerals, plants, animals and interactive displays. Look for the whale skeleton suspended in the entrance hall, then follow the permanent exhibition, Planet Life, from the planet’s beginnings to the present. The modern building and family-friendly facilities make this a useful indoor stop with children, while clear displays let you explore at your own pace.
Planet Life and the story of Earth
The permanent exhibition, Planet Life, follows the development of the planet and the forms of life it supports. Its displays connect features such as rivers, mountains and oceans with the organisms that make up a global ecosystem. The chronology begins with the early universe and the formation of Earth, then moves through the evolution of plants and animals.
Interactive screens and multimedia displays help explain scientific ideas, including taxonomy and classification. Fossils, preserved animals, plants and minerals give visitors physical examples to explore alongside the information. The arrangement makes it possible to move through the collection at your own pace.
Specimens to look for
A whale skeleton hangs in the entrance hall. The animal beached on the nearby coast in 1862, and the skeleton is a striking introduction to the natural history displays. Inside, look for dinosaur fossils, other skeletons and preserved fauna, as well as minerals and botanical specimens.
The collections cover subjects including geology, palaeontology, zoology and botany. Animal displays include taxidermy birds and other species; the museum also has a collection of mushrooms. Exhibits combine objects with digital imagery, lighting and sound to support the journey through Earth’s history.
Planning a family visit
The museum is in Parc del Fòrum, at Plaça Leonardo da Vinci, 4-5, in Sant Martí. It occupies a modern, blue-tinted building designed by Herzog & de Meuron. Family facilities include child-sized toilets, a place to leave belongings and a gift shop. The museum is wheelchair accessible, with an accessible entrance and restrooms.
Plan around two hours for the permanent collection. If you want a quieter visit, arrive early. Entry is free on Sundays after 3 pm and throughout the first Sunday of each month. Spaces for eating are available inside, and bringing your own food is an option.
Häufige Fragen
How long do you need at the Museum of Natural Sciences of Barcelona?
Allow about two hours to explore the permanent collection at your own pace.
When is entry free?
Entry is free on Sundays after 3 pm and all day on the first Sunday of each month.
What is the Museu Blau known for?
Its Planet Life exhibition follows Earth’s evolution, with displays of fossils, minerals, plants and animals. A whale skeleton hangs in the entrance hall.
Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes. It has interactive displays and family facilities, including child-sized toilets and a place to leave belongings.
