The museum holds the Venus of Willendorf, one of the most famous archaeological finds of the Paleolithic era.
The meteorite collection includes the 1808 Hraschina fall, which was the first specimen in the collection.
The main dome is decorated with a fresco cycle illustrating the history of creation and nature.
The institution employs over 60 scientists who regularly publish research in peer-reviewed journals.
The building features 39 bronze statues on its exterior facade representing various scientific disciplines.
The collection includes extinct species such as the Steller's sea cow and the dodo, preserved via historic taxidermy.
The museum operates a specialized laboratory for the study of ancient DNA and mineralogical analysis.
The building's foundation stone was laid in 1871 under the direction of architect Gottfried Semper.
The Museum of Natural History Vienna houses over 30 million objects spanning the history of Earth, life, and the universe. The collection is housed in a purpose-built 19th-century palace located on the Ringstrasse, directly opposite its architectural twin, the Kunsthistorisches Museum. It features the world's largest and oldest public display of meteorites, including a dedicated meteorite hall. The museum is world-renowned for its Venus of Willendorf figurine, which dates back approximately 29,500 years. Its scientific collections originate from the former imperial cabinet of natural history founded by Emperor Franz Stephan I. The building itself is an example of historicism, featuring a grand domed central hall and extensive fresco work. Specialized departments curate extensive botanical, zoological, geological, and anthropological exhibits. Research remains a core function, with the museum actively contributing to international taxonomic and evolutionary studies. The permanent exhibition space covers approximately 8,700 square meters.
The central main staircase leading up to the domed hall, which offers a symmetrical view of the grand interior architecture.
Prioritize the meteorite room early in your visit as it is the most popular gallery.
Check the temporary exhibition schedule online, as these galleries rotate frequently and often feature unique international loans.
Use the museum's digital guided tour app to access deeper scientific context for the major cabinets.
Trying to see every single display in one day; focus on specific wings to avoid museum fatigue.
Closed on Tuesdays.
Photography is permitted for private use without flash; large backpacks must be stored in lockers.
