This magnificent natural history museum dates back to the early 1830’s and is housed in an impressively handsome neoclassical structure that is over 110 years old. Located in the historic Parque Quinta Normal de Santiago, the Santiago Natural History Museum is home to twelve impressive permanent exhibits that detail much of Chile’s and South America’s diverse environment and eco-system.
The museum provides engaging exhibits and interactive displays in an effort to showcase Chile’s natural and cultural heritage. Part of the natural history collection includes a 17 metre blue whale skeleton which is the centre piece of the museum’s beautiful centre hall. Proceeding through the modern galleries, visitors are introduced to fascinating exhibits detailing Chile’s flora and fauna, and the countries ecological progression through the centuries.
The cultural displays showcase archaeological artefacts from the ancient Inca civilization and other extinct cultures of the region, including the fascinating and remote Easter Island. The mysterious Easter Island writings or glyphs are also on display here. These as of yet un-deciphered writings are believed to date back at least 500 years with the largest collection in the world being held here.
The museum is served by Line 5 on the Santiago subway system. The closest station is Quinta Normal and is just minutes away from the museum entrance. Estaciòn Central (Central Station) is served by Line 1 and is several blocks to the south of the museum.
