This is one of the most extensive natural history museums in the world, displaying the earth's flora and fauna from prehistoric times to the present day.

As you walk round the museum you'll be able to visualize the whole process of the evolution of life on earth - and get better acquainted with the very first inhabitants of the planet, some of whom are quite terrifying, even in skeletal form. Kids, of course - and adults, too - are particularly fond of the dinosaur hall, where you can see a number of skeletons of these extinct beasts who once dominated the earth. There is also a separate hall dedicated to the geological history of the Moscow region. There's also an impressive mammoth skeleton.

All together, there are six beautifully laid-out halls in the Palaeontological Museum, containing some of the rarest specimens of animal and plant life from several million years ago. This unique collection has over 5,000 exhibits, gathered by several generations of Russian scientists and explorers.

Opening hours:

  Wednesday to Friday - 10:00 to 16:00, Saturday and Sunday - 10:00 to 18:45, closed Monday and Tuesday.