Natural History Museum, Basel

The Natural History Museum Basel in Switzerland is a treasure trove of scientific heritage and natural wonders. Established in 1821, its roots trace back even further to the Amerbach Cabinet (Amerbachkabinett), a 16th-century cabinet of curiosities that Basel acquired in 1661. The museum has since grown into a premier institution, housing over 11.8 million objects under the theme “Archives of Life.”

This monumental museum, located on Augustinergasse since 1849, showcases a range of exhibits across its 2,100 square meters of space. Permanent displays include fascinating themes such as evolution (Mammoth & Sabertooth Tiger), extinct species (Quagga & Dodo), and earth dynamics (Fire & Water). There’s also an evolving roster of special exhibitions, like the internationally renowned Wildlife Photographer of the Year series, which brings contemporary scientific discussions to the fore.

Among the unique treasures are the mummy of Anna Catharina Bischoff, discovered in 1975 in the Barfüsserkirche, and the skeleton of Theo the Pipe Smoker, unearthed near Kleinbasel's Theodore Church in 1984. The building itself, designed by Melchior Berri and completed in 1849, is an architectural gem. It features an allegorical frieze by Johann Jakob Oechslin and frescoes by Arnold Bocklin, emphasizing its civic and artistic significance.

A heritage site of national importance, the museum is undergoing an exciting transformation. In 2026, it will relocate to a state-of-the-art facility at the Basel Saint Johann train station, providing an enhanced platform for exploration, education, and conservation. Whether marveling at fossils, minerals, or historical artifacts, visitors encounter a vibrant narrative of life’s diversity and evolution in this storied institution.