Natural History Museum

Overview

Nestled within the breathtaking Palais Longchamp in Marseille, France, the Natural History Museum of Marseille (Muséum d'histoire naturelle de Marseille) offers an enriching journey into the natural world. Established in 1819, it is one of France's oldest and most significant natural history museums, housing an impressive collection that spans zoology, botany, paleontology, and mineralogy. The museum occupies the right wing of the monumental Palais Longchamp, a landmark structure celebrated for its architectural grandeur and symbolic importance to the city.

As a 'Musée de France' since 2002, the museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing natural heritage, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a wide audience. Its strategic location within the Palais Longchamp also positions it as a cultural cornerstone, blending scientific exploration with historical artistry.

History & Cultural Background

The Natural History Museum of Marseille was founded in 1819 by Jean-Baptiste, Marquis de Montgrand, then mayor of Marseille, and Christophe de Villeneuve-Bargemon, the prefect of the Bouches-du-Rhône department. It initially gathered collections from an 18th-century cabinet of curiosities and state donations. The museum found its permanent home in 1869 within the newly constructed Palais Longchamp.

The Palais Longchamp itself is a monument born from necessity and celebrated with grandeur. It was built between 1862 and 1869 by architect Henri-Jacques Espérandieu to commemorate the arrival of water from the Durance River to Marseille via the Canal de Marseille, a vital engineering feat that transformed the city. The palace was conceived as a 'hymn to water,' featuring a spectacular fountain with allegorical sculptures symbolizing fertility and abundance. It houses two museums: the Natural History Museum in its right wing and the Museum of Fine Arts in its left wing.

What Makes It Special

The museum distinguishes itself with a vast and diverse collection comprising over one million specimens. This includes approximately 83,000 zoological specimens, 200,000 botanical specimens, 81,000 fossils, and 8,000 mineral samples.

A major highlight is the 'Terre d'Evolution' (Earth of Evolution) permanent exhibition, inaugurated in 2020. This modern museography explores the history of life on Earth, past and present biodiversity, and humanity's impact on the natural world through seven major sequences focusing on life functions like 'Living there,' 'Reproducing,' and 'Evolving.' It offers visitors a contemporary view of natural and scientific heritage, blending scientific rigor with a poetic and contemplative scenography that harmonizes with the palace's historic setting.

Another unique feature is the 'Salle de Provence,' a room dedicated to the regional flora and fauna, which has been preserved as a remarkable example of 19th-century museography. Its walls are adorned with frescoes by Raphael Ponson, and the room itself is classified as a historical monument, offering a glimpse into the museum's rich past.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The very existence of Palais Longchamp, and thus the museum, is a testament to Marseille's enduring spirit and ingenuity. The city suffered greatly from water scarcity and cholera epidemics in the 19th century, making the arrival of Durance River water a cause for immense celebration. The palace's grand fountain, with its flowing cascades and allegorical figures, visually narrates this triumph, symbolizing the life and prosperity water brought to Marseille. The lions and tigers guarding the entrance, sculpted by Antoine Louis Barye, add a majestic touch to this architectural masterpiece.

Within the museum's extensive archives, a fascinating discovery was made in 1986: a specimen of the giant gecko of Delcourt, a species previously thought to be extinct or largely unknown. This rare find contributed significantly to the scientific description of the species, highlighting the hidden treasures that lie within museum collections.

The museum also regularly organizes 'Nature Outings,' free excursions designed to help locals and visitors discover the rich biodiversity of the Mediterranean region, fostering a deeper connection with the natural environment.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting the Natural History Museum of Marseille is an immersive experience that caters to all ages. Children, in particular, are often captivated by the extensive displays of naturalized animals, from giraffes and bears to lesser-known species. The museum's layout within the majestic Palais Longchamp adds to the overall experience; visitors can explore scientific exhibitions while surrounded by stunning 19th-century architecture.

The 'Terre d'Evolution' exhibition encourages reflection on environmental issues and biodiversity. Beyond the permanent collections, the museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions and conferences, ensuring there's always something new to discover. The integration of the museum within the larger Palais Longchamp complex means visitors can also enjoy the surrounding gardens and park, making for a full day of cultural and leisurely exploration in the heart of Marseille.