The Concavenator corcovatus, a unique dinosaur species found in Cuenca, features a distinctive hump on its back and evidence of proto-feathers on its arms.
The Las Hoyas site, which provides many of the museum's exhibits, is a UNESCO-recognized site of exceptional preservation known as a Lagerstätte.
The museum building is intentionally constructed to integrate with the sedimentary geology of the surrounding terrain.
The collection includes fossilized remains of giant sauropods recovered from the Lo Hueco site during the construction of high-speed rail lines.
MUPA houses one of the most significant collections of Cretaceous fossils in Europe.
The Museo Paleontológico de Castilla-La Mancha (MUPA) in Cuenca specializes in the Cretaceous period, highlighting fossils discovered in the Las Hoyas and Lo Hueco paleontological sites. The facility features life-sized mechanical models of dinosaurs alongside extensive fossil collections. Exhibits are organized chronologically, covering the geological history of the region from the Paleozoic era to the Cenozoic. Visitors can observe the 'Concavenator corcovatus,' a unique carnivorous theropod discovered in Cuenca with specialized skin structures. The museum serves as a primary research center for regional paleontological findings. It is designed with interactive displays and digital projections intended for both academic study and general education. The structure is built into the hillside, allowing for panoramic views of the historic city of Cuenca.
The main exhibition hall featuring the large-scale dinosaur replicas, which provides a dramatic sense of scale.
Check the museum website for rotating temporary exhibitions before planning your trip.
The museum is multi-level; start from the top floor and work your way down to follow the chronological path of evolution.
Allocate time to look at the outdoor terrace for unobstructed views of the Cuenca old town skyline.
Attempting to walk from the historic 'Casco Antiguo' center; the museum is located on a steep hill that is better accessed by local transport or car.
Closed on Mondays throughout the year.
