Micropia Museum is a zoo and attraction that focuses on microbiology and the organisms we encounter every day. An attraction of a different kind, Micropia Museum displays living creatures in a new and unique way. In fact, the museum is one of the first museums in the world that focuses on microbiology and how it affects daily life, both in positive and negative ways.
The museum exhibits highlight examples of actual living microbes and virtual representations of them. The museum aims to show microbes in a positive and fascinating light to help bridge the gap of understanding between science and the general population.
Micropia - one of the highlights of 8 Things to Do Off the Beaten Track in Amsterdam (Read all about Amsterdam here)
photo by Eric de Redelijkheid (CC BY-SA 2.0) modified
Highlights of Micropia
Micropia shows the world around us in a way most of us never think about by showcasing microscopic life forms that exist in and around us. You can see displays of Petri dishes that show the beautiful intricacy of microbial cultures, as well as a scanner that shows what types of microbes grow on humans.
The only light surrounding the exhibits at the Micropia Museum is from the displays themselves, giving the whole exhibit an eerie atmosphere. The museum has a microbiology lab on the premises where lab technicians also work as museum docents and offer to answer any questions you may have.
photo by Ciotu Cosmin (CC BY-SA 4.0) modified
Good things to know about visiting Micropia
Micropia Museum is part of the Artis Amsterdam Royal Zoo complex. After purchasing tickets on the ground floor and taking the lift to the first floor, you will see such attractions as a film about the mites in our eyes.
The Kiss-o-Meter is always a crowd-pleaser, as it counts the number of microbes transferred in a kiss. The museum also has a preserved human digestive system, as well as a large display of various viruses, bacteria, fungi and algae. Patrons can learn how imperative microbes are for life on our planet as we know it.
Micropia
Location: Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, 1018 CZ Amsterdam, Netherlands
Open: Daily from 11 am to 5 pm
Phone: +31 20 523 3670
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Where to stay in Amsterdam
Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Landmark
Volkshotel
ibis Amsterdam Centre
Ruby Emma Hotel Amsterdam
Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam
Hotel Fogo Amsterdam
Sonder Park House
Eden Hotel Amsterdam
Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam
