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Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences: A Journey Through Time and Nature

Explore Europe's largest dinosaur collection and delve into the wonders of natural history at Brussels' Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences.

4.5

The Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences in Brussels is a captivating museum and research institute, home to Europe's largest dinosaur exhibition and one of the largest natural history collections. Explore the wonders of nature, evolution, and biodiversity in its impressive galleries.

A brief summary to Royal Belgian institute of Natural Sciences

  • Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or autumn months for mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues.
  • The museum is easily accessible by public transport, with several bus, metro, and train options available.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events.
  • Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the museum's extensive collections.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Brussels Central Station, take a train to Brussels-Luxembourg station, which is a 5-minute walk to the museum. Alternatively, take metro lines 2 or 6 to Trône/Troon station or lines 1 or 5 to Maelbeek/Maalbeek station, each about a 10-minute walk away. Several bus lines also stop near the museum, including lines 34, 38, 80, and 95. A single journey ticket costs €2.30.

  • Walking

    If you are near the European Parliament, walk through Leopold Park towards Rue Vautier. The museum is located at number 29. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Brussels. A short trip from the city center to the museum will cost approximately €10-€15. Be sure to specify 'Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Rue Vautier 29' as your destination.

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Discover more about Royal Belgian institute of Natural Sciences

The Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, located in Brussels, is more than just a museum; it's a leading scientific institution dedicated to research, conservation, and education. Founded in 1846, the institute houses an astounding 38 million specimens, placing it among the top 10 natural history collections in the world. The museum's galleries showcase a fraction of this vast collection, inviting visitors to embark on a journey through time and nature. The Dinosaur Gallery, the largest in Europe, is a major draw, featuring the famous Bernissart Iguanodons discovered in Belgium in 1878. Visitors can marvel at the fossilized skeletons and learn about these fascinating creatures. Other highlights include the Gallery of Humankind, which explores the evolution of the human body, the Gallery of Evolution, BiodiverCITY, the Mineral Hall, and the 250 Years of Natural Sciences hall. The institute's history is intertwined with the architectural evolution of its buildings. Originally housed in the Palace of Nassau, the collection moved to the Convent of the Redemptoristines in Leopold Park in the late 19th century. Over the years, the museum has expanded, incorporating various architectural styles, including a modernist tower built in the mid-20th century. Today, the museum continues to evolve, with ongoing renovations and new exhibitions that engage visitors with the wonders of the natural world. The Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences actively contributes to scientific research and public policy. Its scientists conduct multidisciplinary research in areas such as biodiversity, ecosystems, and the history of life. The institute also provides scientific expertise to public authorities, supporting environmental protection and conservation efforts.

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