ALSO FOR US
Welcome to the origin of our existence. In 90 minutes you will discover how we have gotten to be who we are in a calm, relaxed museum visit that promotes reflection and provides you with an unforgettable show: the show of our evolution.
The Railway Trench Archaeological Site
Humanity found a new home more than a million years ago in the Atapuerca Mountains. It was Homo antecessor, the oldest human being in Europe, whose remains were discovered there thanks to the construction of a mining train line about a century ago. See the original fossils of the first inhabitants of Europe and learn about their curious culinary practice: cannibalism.
The Bone Pit
A video projected on a spectacular, oversized screen is used to teach us about the secrets of this archaeological site, a small cavity in the interior of the Atapuerca Mountains that houses the remains of twenty-eight men and women who lived a half a million years ago. Take advantage of the opportunity to meet Miguelón up close and personal and to discover his surprising history.
The Atapuerca Project: Communication and Dissemination
Learn visually how a project that got started almost 40 years ago has evolved and listen – straight from the mouths of its protagonists – to the stories of its ups and downs. All this can be done while seated comfortably on one of our relaxing sofas. This is the best way to get up strength before going on to the next floor of the Museum!
Both stairs and an elevator are available to go on to the next floor of the Museum. If you are unable to find them, please see a Museum attendant. Our attendants are always happy to help.
Evolutionary Theory
A ship inside the Human Evolution Museum? That's right, but it isn't just any ordinary ship. The HMS Beagle, the frigate that took Charles Darwin around the world, transports us through time to the fourteenth century in a journey that allows us to understand the work of this British naturalist, along with the scientific conclusions that helped him to come up with the Theory of Evolution. Go down to the ship's hold and visit Darwin's office.
Human Evolution
In the heart of the Human Evolution Museum you can get reacquainted with our ancestors, recreated through a series of ten very lifelike sculptures by the French artist Elisabeth Daynès. Get the chance to look Lucy, Mrs. Ples, or even Miguelón himself right in the eye! It's an unforgettable experience.
The creative side of Homo sapiens: Prehistoric Art
Four videos, projected on walls that resemble those of a cave, will allow you to discover the different aspects of the first masterpieces of humanity: prehistoric art. Have a seat in one of our comfortable chairs and discover the techniques and features of cave art throughout Prehistory. Also learn how those techniques and features have persevered until relatively recent dates.
Evolutionary Ecosystems
From the uppermost part of the Museum, you'll be able to enjoy the views of the building, designed by the architect Juan Navarro Baldeweg, and of the vegetation that presides over it. This vegetation recreates the landscape of the Atapuerca Mountains and its evolution throughout Prehistory. Let the exceptional natural light that fills this space shine over you – it´s a great way to finish your visit to the Museum.