The Museum of Natural History, Cusco

The Museum of Natural History in Cusco is a captivating destination for those interested in the diverse biological and geological heritage of Peru, particularly the Cusco region. Established in the mid-20th century by the Faculty of Biological Sciences of the National University San Antonio Abad del Cusco (UNSAAC), the museum found its permanent home in 1992 beside the Church of the Company of Jesus, facing the Main Square of the city.

This museum, though small in size, offers a comprehensive and detailed exhibition that spans the flora, fauna, and geological features of Peru from prehistoric times to the present day. The collection is notably rich in paleontological exhibits including fossils of megaterium, glyptodon, mastodon, and the American horse, which illustrate the region’s ancient biological diversity. A standout exhibit is the mastodon tusk, renowned for its considerable age and size.

In addition to its fossil collections, the museum boasts an impressive array of taxidermied animals and jars containing preserved embryos, including a human embryo. The fauna section includes a variety of species such as frogs, toads, snakes, lizards, salamanders, turtles, felines, crocodiles, monkeys, birds, butterflies, and insects. These specimens are showcased in detailed panels and dissected displays, highlighting their unique biological traits and adaptations.

The flora section is equally intriguing, with a dedicated space showcasing medicinal plants and microscopic fungi, providing insights into the local use of plants and their ecological importance. The geological collection enriches the visitor's experience further by presenting a variety of minerals, rocks, and crystals, which are integral to understanding the natural history and physical landscape of the region.