Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle

This is an image of the Grand Gallery of Evolution (Grande Galerie de l'Evolution) from the National Museum of Natural History which inherited a huge collection from the zoology gallery that was built into a corner of the botanical gardens in 1889, the same year the Eiffel Tower was constructed. The museum reopened in 1994 and now boasts a total area of 6000 m2 and exhibits of 7000 different types of flora and fauna. As soon as you enter, you will be overwhelmed by the enormous skeleton of a whale.

The ground and first floors deal with Biological Diversity, the second floor is Mankinds Effect on Biology, and the third is themed Biological Evolution. The biggest highlight is the legion of taxidermied animals lined up like a parade, with a huge mammoth at the head. You'll also notice that the exhibit methods are done in very interesting ways, like you would expect from the French. There are rare and extinct animals that have been put on display, and this is a big part of the museums history.

You should definitely check out the Room of Extinct and Endangered Species.
Its a wonderfully complete museum of natural history, but dont forget to enjoy the beautiful late-19th century architecture, like the high, glass ceiling. And, of course its a place the whole family can enjoy. On nice days, head out to the botanical garden, and try some of the excellent mint tea on the terrace of the Mosquee de Paris next door.

National Museum of Natural History - Grand Gallery of Evolution
Adresse :	Jardin des Plantes - 36, rue Geoffroy Saint Hilaire 75005
Metro :	Censier Daubenton line 7, or Place Monge line 7, then a 3 minute walk
Tel :	01 40 79 54 79
Open :	10:00-18:00
Close :	Tuesdays, May 1st
Fees :	Gen. Adm. 8, Ages 4-13 6, Ages 3 and under Free
Paris Museum Pass :	No
Web :	www.mnhn.fr