Museum of Nature, Riga

The Museum of Nature in Riga boasts the oldest and most voluminous collection of natural exhibits in the Baltic region. The museum was founded as a private entity in 1845 by the Riga Naturalists Society, which was a German society aimed at preserving and displaying its natural collection to the people for the purpose of educating and involving them in environmental issues. This goal has stayed unchanged throughout the museum’s history and its new exhibits, added over the years, pursue the same objective.

The museum collections are spread over four levels, featuring a multitude of fossils, stuffed animals and plants. Those seeking zoological and geographical information about the region will find it here in abundance. The 175,000 exhibits are grouped into 6 categories, namely: Geology, Botany, Zoology & Entomology, Palaeontology & People, Anthropology, and Environment. Temporary exhibits are also periodically displayed in the museum.

Apart from the exhibition space, the museum embraces departments for Collection Management, Exhibition and Information, taxidermy and photographic laboratories and a library.