Natural History Museum, Sintra

The Sintra Natural History Museum, situated in the historic center of Sintra, is a gem of scientific and cultural significance. Housed in a charming 19th-century building dating back to 1893, the museum opened its doors in 2009, showcasing a remarkable collection curated over nearly five decades by Miguel Barbosa and his wife, Fernanda Barbosa. Their dedication to collecting fossils and scientific specimens has resulted in an exceptional array of artifacts, now enriched by the entomological and malacological contributions from Eduardo and his wife, generously donated to the Municipality of Sintra.

This is the fourth natural history museum in the Greater Lisbon Region, and it sets itself apart with an extensive collection spanning paleontology, mineralogy, malacology, and petrography, featuring specimens from every continent. The museum’s highlights include over 10,000 fossils, a captivating collection of trilobites, beautifully preserved dinosaur specimens, and stunning minerals. Among the treasures is the Nantan Meteorite from China, with its historical impact documented since the 16th century.

The museum’s permanent exhibition narrates the Earth's geological evolution, from its formation through epochs like the Precambrian to the Quaternary, using innovative technology and modern displays. Visitors can explore a wide array of exhibits, from bivalves and gastropods in the malacology collection to national and international rocks and meteorites in the petrography section.

In addition to the permanent exhibition, the museum offers a temporary exhibition space, a laboratory for specimen study and conservation, a specialized documentation service, and a gift shop. The educational service ensures a fascinating journey through Earth's natural history for both national and international audiences.

Blending scientific rigor with engaging modern design, the Sintra Natural History Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the wonders of our planet’s past.