The Naturhistoriska Riksmuseet (Swedish Museum of Natural History), Sweden’s largest museum, offers an immersive journey through Earth’s history and ecosystems. Explore dinosaur fossils, polar regions, and marine life, or step into Cosmonova—Europe’s largest IMAX dome—for cosmic adventures.
Founded in 1819, this family-friendly hub blends interactive exhibits (like crawling inside a human ear) with cutting-edge research on biodiversity. In essence, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and curious minds.
A rich history
The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences established the museum in 1819, but its origins can actually be found in collections dating back to 1739. Architect Axel Anderberg created the current imposing structure, which debuted in 1916 and is a prime example of early 20th-century architecture.
Exhibitions and attractions
The museum boasts ten permanent exhibitions covering a wide range of topics:
- “The Human Journey”: Explore seven million years of human evolution
- “Fossil and Evolution”: Encounter gigantic dinosaurs and learn about Earth’s history
- “The Polar Regions”: Experience the unique environments of the Arctic and Antarctic
- “World of Water”: Discover the secrets of our blue planet
- “Biodiversity”: Explore Sweden’s diverse natural habitats
One of the museum’s highlights is Cosmonova, Sweden’s only IMAX dome theater and planetarium, offering immersive experiences of space and nature.
Interactive learning
Naturhistoriska Riksmuseet emphasizes hands-on learning. Visitors can:
- Crawl inside a human ear model
- Experience a simulated forest fire
- Step into a chamber mimicking a mosquito swarm
These interactive elements make the museum particularly appealing for families with children.
Research and conservation
The museum is a well-known research organization in addition to its public exhibitions. It supports international conservation efforts, houses about 11 million specimens, and carries out important research on environmental and evolutionary issues.
Other attractions nearby
- A beautiful botanical garden near the museum, the Bergius Botanic Garden (Bergianska Trädgården) is home to a variety of plant species from around the globe.
