Natural History Museum of Basel

The Natural History Museum of Basel

The Basel audio-guided tour presents you with the Natural History Museum, a veritable memory of the living world whose history begins as early as the seventeenth century.

Archives of life

The history of the museum begins as early as 1661 with a cabinet of curiosities, a public scientific collection of an era when minerals, animals and rare objects were gathered. Officially founded in 1821, it has not ceased to grow for more than two centuries. Its reserves today hold about seven million seven hundred thousand specimens and objects, often described as "archives of life": fossils, insects, minerals, skeletons and zoological specimens. The museum also holds the mummy of Anna Catharina Bischoff, discovered in 1975 and naturally mummified, whose identity was confirmed thanks to DNA.

What there is to see

The visit takes you on a journey through time and the diversity of the natural world: dinosaurs and large prehistoric mammals, extinct species such as the dodo, Swiss fauna and minerals from all over the world. Rich and educational, the museum addresses all those curious about the history of life on Earth. It is a fascinating stop for young and old.

Practical information

The Natural History Museum is in the centre of Basel. It can generally be visited all year round according to hours that may vary depending on the season. It is advisable to check the conditions of access and the prices before the visit.

When was the Natural History Museum founded?

Officially in 1821, but its history begins as early as 1661 with a public cabinet of curiosities.

What can you see at the Natural History Museum?

Dinosaurs, prehistoric mammals, extinct species such as the dodo, Swiss fauna and minerals from all over the world.