National Museum of Science and Technology, La Coruna

The National Museum of Science and Technology (MUNCYT) is a fascinating institution dedicated to showcasing the evolution of science and technology in Spain from ancient times to the modern era. Housed in the striking Prisma de Cristal building, designed by Victoria Acivro and Anxo Alonso, the museum's architecture is an attraction in itself. The exterior is a gleaming glass cube, while the interior features a massive concrete "tree" that holds essential services such as offices, a library, event halls, and workshops. Exhibition spaces are ingeniously positioned between the glass and concrete structures, allowing visitors to view multiple halls from different perspectives, creating a dynamic and engaging museum experience.

MUNCYT’s permanent collection is spread across six expansive halls, each with its own thematic focus. The Miscellanea hall introduces visitors to the wonders of science through interactive displays hosted by robots. In Capitals, major technological landmarks are showcased, including the lantern from the Tower of Hercules. The Heritage section displays some of the oldest and most treasured artifacts, while Spanish Innovation highlights contemporary scientific advancements. The Iberia hall features the front section of the Boeing 747 that brought Picasso's Guernica back to Spain from New York, offering visitors the rare opportunity to step inside a jumbo jet. Finally, the Siglo XX (20th Century) hall reflects on the inventions that transformed everyday life in the last century.

Beyond its captivating exhibits, MUNCYT also serves as a center for scientific education and cultural preservation. Its collection includes over 15,000 objects, spanning from the 16th century to the present day. These artifacts-ranging from scientific instruments and technological gadgets to machine tools and industrial devices-are primarily sourced from educational institutions, scientific organizations, private collectors, and donations. The museum's departments cover a broad range of fields, including agriculture, communications, physics, biology, geology, mathematics, astronomy, chemistry, and transport, reflecting the vast scope of scientific progress.