Natuurhistorisch Museum Rotterdam

Overview

The Natuurhistorisch Museum Rotterdam is a natural history museum with a quirky twist — it specializes in urban wildlife and the unexpected intersections of nature and city life. Its annual Dead Animal Award has gained international recognition.

Highlights

• Dead Animal Day: An annual award for the most unusual animal death in the Netherlands — past winners include a hedgehog hit by a golf ball.
• City Animals: Exhibits on the wildlife thriving in Rotterdam's urban environment.
• Mineral Collection: An impressive geological collection featuring meteorites and gemstones.

History

Founded in 1927, the museum moved to its current villa location in 2008. It distinguishes itself from larger natural history museums by focusing on nature in urban environments and maintaining a sense of humour.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: The museum is small — combine with a walk in the surrounding Westzeedijk area.
• Tip 2: Visit during Dead Animal Day in September for the museum's most popular annual event.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.