The institution's core collection began with the purchase of the Amerbach Cabinet by the city of Basel in 1661.
The museum holds over 7.7 million specimens, making it one of the largest natural history collections in Switzerland.
It houses a significant collection of meteorites, including rare samples recovered from Swiss territory.
The paleontological department holds extensive remains from the Jura Mountains, a region famous for its Jurassic period fossils.
The museum conducts ongoing research into the genetic and morphological biodiversity of the Rhine valley.
Its entomological collection includes millions of insect specimens used by scientists globally for taxonomic identification.
The Museum of Natural History Basel (Naturhistorisches Museum Basel) is a state-funded institution housing over 7.7 million objects across zoology, entomology, mineralogy, and paleontology. It is housed within a historic building located in the city's Old Town. The collection originates from the 1661 Amerbach Cabinet, which is considered the oldest public museum collection in the world. Permanent exhibitions focus on the biodiversity of the Basel region, the evolution of local landscapes, and global natural history. The museum serves as a center for systematic research and houses significant type specimens for taxonomic study. Visitors can explore displays ranging from taxidermy and mineral crystal structures to prehistoric fossils. It maintains active partnerships with the University of Basel for scientific education.
The ornate entrance staircase and the architecture of the historic inner courtyard.
Focus on the 'Treasures of the Collection' gallery to see the most historically significant pieces.
Visit the 'Evolution' exhibition to understand how the regional topography of the Jura mountains has changed over millions of years.
Check the official website for temporary exhibitions, which often highlight current scientific research projects.
Do not attempt to touch the specimens, as many are fragile historical artifacts or chemically treated.
Closed on Mondays.
