Sintra Natural History Museum (Museu de História Natural de Sintra)

Established on August 1, 2009, the museum is housed in a historic building dating back to the 19th century (1893) and is home to a remarkable collection of scientific importance, curated by the avid collectors Miguel Barbosa and Fernanda Barbosa.

The museum boasts a diverse range of offerings, including paleontology, mineralogy, malacology, and petrography. Its exhibits encompass thousands of pieces that highlight the evolution of life on Earth and the geological transformations that have shaped our planet over millions of years, spanning from the Precambrian to the Quaternary epochs. The permanent exhibition takes visitors on a captivating journey, narrating the story of our planet's formation and the fascinating changes it has undergone throughout history.

The museum features various departments and facilities to support its educational and research endeavors. A temporary exhibition room allows for the hosting of special exhibitions and events, providing visitors with fresh and engaging content. Additionally, there is a reserve and laboratory dedicated to the treatment and study of the museum's valuable artifacts. A specialized documentation service ensures that comprehensive information is available to scholars and enthusiasts, contributing to the dissemination of knowledge. Finally, a store offers visitors the opportunity to take home educational and memorable souvenirs related to natural history.

One of the distinguishing features of the Sintra Natural History Museum is its extensive collection, which encompasses specimens from all continents. With over 10,000 fossils, including rare and well-preserved specimens of dinosaurs, the paleontology collection captivates visitors with its depiction of prehistoric life. The mineralogy collection showcases 900 minerals, displaying parts of rocks, isolated minerals, and stunning gemstones. In the malacology collection, visitors can marvel at 1,347 shells, representing a diverse array of bivalves and gastropods from various origins. The petrography collection, consisting of 544 rock samples, not only presents the main rocks found within Portugal but also showcases extraordinary specimens such as the Nantan meteorite.

Among the museum's most notable exhibits are the dinosaurs and their nests, sourced from the Gobi Desert in China. These fossils offer a glimpse into the ancient world, allowing visitors to visualize these majestic creatures and their reproductive habits. Another highlight is the fragments of the Nantan meteorite, originating from 16th-century China. The meteorite holds significant scientific and historical value, and its presence at the museum adds a unique element to the collection. Additionally, a flying reptile known as Braseodactylus, hailing from Brazil, captures the imagination with its intriguing anatomy and evolutionary adaptations.

Furthermore, the Sintra Natural History Museum offers a captivating simulation of the Big Bang, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the universe's origins. This exhibition explores the subsequent evolution of life on Earth, presenting a comprehensive overview of the geological periods that have shaped our planet.

As the fourth natural history museum in the Greater Lisbon region, the Sintra Natural History Museum stands out due to its exceptional and comprehensive collection. Its exhibits offer an immersive and educational experience, bringing visitors face-to-face with the wonders of nature and the rich diversity of life. The museum's commitment to preserving and showcasing these extraordinary artifacts ensures that future generations can appreciate and learn from our planet's natural history.

In conclusion, the Sintra Natural History Museum in the picturesque village of Sintra is a treasure trove of scientific knowledge and wonders. Through its extensive collection of fossils, minerals, shells, and rocks, the museum tells the captivating story of Earth's evolution and showcases the beauty and diversity of our natural world. With its exceptional exhibits, educational services, and commitment to research, the Sintra Natural History Museum continues to inspire and educate visitors of all ages, fostering a deeper appreciation for the fascinating history of our planet and the importance of preserving its precious natural heritage.