Among the hidden and unusual museums of Paris, we take you to the Galerie de Paléontologie et d'Anatomie comparée of the Muséum national, nestled in the Jardin des Plantes. For fans of the human and animal body, dinosaurs and places steeped in history, this is the place to be. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and open to visitors in time slots except Tuesdays, this museum is a feast for the eyes.
Inaugurated in 1898, the gallery is one of the jewels in the crown of the Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle. Initially conceived for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, it is the fruit of the ambitions of emblematic figures such as Albert Gaudry and Georges Pouchet, who created a space in which theevolution of living organis ms is spectacularly staged. The gallery is distinguished by its Art Nouveau architecture, inspired by the work of Gustave Eiffel and Auguste Bartholdi, although the initial project was never fully completed, being limited to 80 meters of its planned 320-meter length.
The gallery houses an impressive collection of specimens spanning more than 540 million years of evolution, from the Paleozoic era to the present day. Dinosaurs, mammals, fossil invertebrates and specimens of terrestrial flora are presented in a narrative that illustrates the major evolutionary transitions.
The second floor is dedicated to paleontology, where visitors follow a chronological trail through the different eras. From early fish to the famous Mesozoic dinosaurs, each specimen tells a part of our planet's history. Exceptional fossils such as Diplodocus and Triceratops enhance the collection.
Our attention is caught by the gigantic Durfort mammoth, which, after meticulous restoration in 2023, continues to impress visitors. It's a fine illustration of the museum's commitment to preservation and scientific education.
Reflecting several centuries of research and biological history, the Galerie de Paléontologie et d'Anatomie comparée boasts a remarkable collection of skeletons of various animals, both carnivorous and herbivorous. Among them are marine mammals, birds and reptiles. On the first floor, you can admire specimens from the four corners of the globe, including the famous rhinoceros offered to Louis XV, who died during the French Revolution. All around the gallery are showcases displaying animal organs - sensitives please!
In short, a visit to the Galerie de Paléontologie et d'Anatomie Comparée is an enriching experience that enables visitors to understand the links between extinct species and present-day biodiversity. It's a place of learning and wonder that deserves to be explored by all those fascinated by the mysteries of living things.
Tickets cost between €9 and €12, and admission is free for children under 26. It's a great way to discover an unusual and timeless museum in Paris.
To discover:
The Durfort Mammoth at the Paris Natural History Museum, restored!
(Re)discover at the Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle, Paris, the newly restored "Mammouth de Durfort", an icon of paleontology on display since 1898. [Read more]
Paris's Jardin des Plantes is home to a number of historical and unusual sights that are well worth a visit. We reveal 8 treasures to discover in this 24-hectare haven of peace, one of the most beautiful parks in Paris. [Read more]
The Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle de Paris with its Jardin des Plantes is an emblematic institution of the capital, founded in 1793. Accessible all year round, this museum offers an insight into the world's rich natural heritage. From plants and magnets to fossils and experiments, immerse yourself in the fascinating world of nature. [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
Starts April 24, 2024
Location
Gallery of Paleontology and Comparative Anatomy
2 Rue Buffon
75005 Paris 5
Prices
Moins de 26 ans : Free
Tarif réduit: €9
Plein tarif: €12
Recommended age
For all
Official website
billetterie.mnhn.fr
The Durfort Mammoth at the Paris Natural History Museum, restored!
Discover the treasures of the Jardin des Plantes in Paris
Discover the treasures of the Paris Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle - program
