Johnson Geo Centre, St. John`s

The Johnson Geo Centre is a geological interpretation centre situated on Signal Hill. This museum, named after philanthropist Paul Johnson, first opened its doors to the public in 2002. What makes the Johnson Geo Centre truly unique is that a significant portion of it is located underground, nestled within an excavated glacial formation that exposes the bedrock of the hill.

The design of the building ingeniously capitalizes on the natural geological features of Signal Hill. Most of the structure is hidden beneath the ground, allowing visitors to witness the captivating natural rock formations. Originally, the area was filled with peat, but during the construction of the centre, the overburden was removed to unveil the breathtaking bedrock.

Funded by the Johnson Family Foundation at a cost of $11 million, the Johnson Geo Centre features an underground excavation showcasing natural rock formations, seamlessly integrated with a glass-encased structure, and incorporates a sustainable geothermal heating and cooling system utilizing six wells drilled to a depth of 500 feet.

Upon stepping foot inside the Johnson Geo Centre, visitors embark on an immersive journey through a 3.7 billion-year timeline, exploring the mesmerizing themes of continental drift, glaciation, earthquakes, and volcanoes. The centre provides a wealth of educational exhibits and interactive displays that captivate the imagination and offer a deeper understanding of our planet's geological history.

In addition to the indoor exhibits, the Johnson Geo Centre encompasses the outdoor Johnson GEO-VISTA Park. This park showcases the varied uses of stone throughout Newfoundland and Labrador's rich history. Visitors can explore fascinating replicas of historical structures, such as a traditional root cellar, a graveyard, and a house chimney. These outdoor exhibits provide a tangible connection to the region's past, allowing visitors to appreciate the importance of stone in shaping local communities.