Imagine stepping back in time to 1858. The Zoological Museum of the University of Athens began as a small collection of stuffed animals. It was part of the Physiographic Museum.
Today we stand before Greece’s oldest and richest zoological museum. The Zoological Museum spans 2200 square meters. This modern facility houses an extensive collection. It displays mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Also featured are marine invertebrates, snails, insects, and anthropological findings. These specimens come from Greece and other countries.
Hercules Anastasios Mitsopoulos a Greek zoologist founded the Zoological Museum. It is similar to a natural history museum. Initially, it was the largest museum of its kind in Greece.
Inside the Zoological Museum, you will find several sections. The anthropological section displays human bones. These bones from excavations exhibit palaeopathological symptoms. Skull models of the ancestors of modern man are present.
The mammal section includes a variety of mammalian orders. Specimens come from all continents. Large showcases display impressive animals. A large moose from Canada stands out. A group of large felines from Africa captivates. Do not miss the giraffe.
The bird section features many specimens. They come from all over the world but especially Greece. Birds are shown according to their habitats. Eggs and nests are present. Some species have become extinct or are endangered in Greece. Also see the large non-flying birds like ostriches.
The amphibian and reptile section includes most amphibians and reptiles of Greece. Many come from other parts of the world. Large reptiles are presented separately. Look for crocodiles, pythons, and sea turtles.
The marine vertebrate section includes marine and freshwater fish. Marine mammals are present too. A giant white shark is interesting. The skeleton of a minke whale inspires awe.
The insect section includes various insect orders. Some species are pests. Some are useful to man. See insects of Greece in their habitats. Insects from other continents outside Europe are displayed.
The mollusk section includes a large collection. Several mollusks come from Greece and abroad. The marine invertebrate section features sponges and corals. These come from various parts of the world.
The D. Papalios collection is exhibited separately. It includes animals from many parts of the world. Dioramas show scenes from the African savanna. The arctic region is represented. See ostriches in African grasslands. Observe the habitat of the American bison.
Threatened animals are presented separately. Among them is the Mediterranean monk seal. The loggerhead turtle is present. The brown bear can be seen along with some threatened birds.
The Zoological Museum plays a vital role. It preserves Greece’s natural heritage. It conserves collections. It creates databases and archives. The museum researches the fauna of Greece. It educates students. The museum raises public awareness, especially among young people. It advises individuals, organizations, and public services.
Each year around 10000 persons visit the Zoological Museum. Most are children from primary and secondary schools. The Zoological Museum is not just a display. Classes take place within the museum. It is also a research facility. The University of Athens follows a similar example.
The Zoological Museum of the University of Athens has a rich history. It continues to educate. It inspires all who enter its doors.