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Gallery of Evolution: A Journey Through Biodiversity

Explore the evolution of life at Paris's Grande Galerie de l'Évolution, a stunning natural history museum in the heart of the Jardin des Plantes.

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The Gallery of Evolution, located in Paris's Jardin des Plantes, showcases the history of biodiversity and the evolution of species through a stunning display of over 7,000 animal specimens. Housed in a magnificent 19th-century building, the gallery combines science and entertainment to highlight the importance of natural history and mankind's role in it.

A brief summary to Gallery of Evolution

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the day or during the off-season to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
  • Don't miss the impressive parade of African animals, led by the elephant, which is a highlight of the museum.
  • Explore the Jardin des Plantes after your visit to the gallery, as the gardens themselves are free to enter.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events that may be of interest.
  • Consider purchasing a combined ticket to visit other attractions within the Jardin des Plantes, such as the Ménagerie or the Paleontology Gallery.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Grande Galerie de l'Évolution is easily accessible via the Paris Metro. Take Line 5 to Gare d'Austerlitz, Line 7 to Censier-Daubenton, or Line 10 to Jussieu or Gare d'Austerlitz. Several bus lines also stop nearby, including lines 24, 57, 61, 63, 67, 89, and 91. A single Metro or Bus ticket costs €2.50.

  • Walking

    From the Gare d'Austerlitz, exit the station and walk towards the Jardin des Plantes. Enter the gardens and follow the signs to the Grande Galerie de l'Évolution. The walk is approximately 10 minutes and offers a pleasant stroll through the botanical gardens.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available throughout Paris. A short trip from a central Paris location to the Grande Galerie de l'Évolution typically costs between €10 and €15, depending on traffic and distance.

  • Parking

    Finding parking near the Grande Galerie de l'Évolution can be challenging. Several parking garages are located in the vicinity, including the Jardin des Plantes car park. Hourly rates at these garages typically range from €4 to €5, and daily rates can reach €40. Consider using online parking platforms like Mobypark or Onepark to find and reserve parking spaces in advance.

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Discover more about Gallery of Evolution

Located in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, within the Jardin des Plantes, the Grande Galerie de l'Évolution (Gallery of Evolution) is a captivating museum that explores the evolution of life and the diversity of the natural world. Part of the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle (National Museum of Natural History), the gallery is housed in a stunning building that originally opened as the Galerie de Zoologie in 1889. After falling into disrepair, it was renovated and reopened in 1994 as the Grande Galerie de l'Évolution, quickly becoming a popular destination for visitors of all ages. The gallery's exhibits showcase over 7,000 animal specimens, from insects to elephants, illustrating the evolution of species and the relationships between living organisms. The highlight for many is the impressive parade of African animals, led by a large elephant, creating a memorable and impactful display. The building itself is a sight to behold, featuring a soaring glass roof that floods the space with natural light. The museum is organized into several themed sections. The ground floor focuses on marine environments, with skeletons of whales and other sea creatures. The first floor is dedicated to terrestrial environments, displaying animals from various habitats around the world. The second floor examines the impact of humans on the environment, while the third floor delves into the history of life on Earth. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions and features a Children's Gallery, making it an engaging and educational experience for families. The Grande Galerie de l'Évolution not only displays an impressive collection of specimens but also aims to raise awareness about biodiversity and the importance of conservation. By showcasing the history of life on Earth and the impact of human activities, the museum encourages visitors to consider their role in protecting the planet's natural heritage.

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