Natural History Museum of Bern, Berne
Facts and practical information
The Natural History Museum of Bern is a treasure trove of scientific wonders nestled in the heart of Berne, Switzerland. Established in 1832, it is renowned for its comprehensive collections that span across zoology, paleontology, geology, and anthropology. The museum provides an immersive experience into the natural world and the history of life on Earth.
Among its many exhibits, the museum boasts an impressive array of dioramas that showcase the diverse wildlife from around the globe. These meticulously crafted displays transport visitors into various habitats, from the lush jungles of the Amazon to the frozen expanses of the Arctic.
One of the museum's highlights is the Barry Room, which pays tribute to the legendary Barry dogs, the predecessors to the modern St. Bernard. The room features the taxidermied remains of Barry, a dog famous for saving over 40 lives in the Swiss Alps during the early 19th century.
The museum is also home to the largest diorama of stuffed birds in Switzerland, featuring over 600 species. This collection is not only a visual spectacle but also a critical resource for ornithological research and education.
For fans of paleontology, the museum showcases a vast collection of fossils, including a complete skeleton of a Plateosaurus, a testament to the prehistoric past of the region. The geology section offers a journey through time with its rocks and minerals exhibits, illustrating the dynamic processes that have shaped our planet.
The Natural History Museum of Bern is committed to education and research. It hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs that cater to all ages, making it an ideal destination for families, students, and anyone with a curiosity about the natural world.
Bernastrasse 15Kirchenfeld-Schosshalde (Kirchenfeld)Berne 3005
Natural History Museum of Bern – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: Kramgasse, Zytglogge, Bern Minster, Zähringerbrunnen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Natural History Museum of Bern open?
- Monday 2 pm - 5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am - 5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am - 6 pm
- Thursday 9 am - 5 pm
- Friday 9 am - 5 pm
- Saturday 10 am - 5 pm
- Sunday 10 am - 5 pm
Which popular attractions are close to Natural History Museum of Bern?
How to get to Natural History Museum of Bern by public transport?
Bus
- Aegertenstrasse • Lines: 19 (3 min walk)
- Helvetiaplatz • Lines: 19 (4 min walk)
Tram
- Helvetiaplatz • Lines: 6, 7, 8 (4 min walk)
- Luisenstrasse • Lines: 7, 8 (5 min walk)
Train
- Marzili (10 min walk)
- Bern DMB (11 min walk)
Trolleybus
- Zytglogge • Lines: 12 (11 min walk)
- Rathaus • Lines: 12 (12 min walk)
Light rail
- Bern RBS • Lines: Re, S7, S8, S9 (17 min walk)