Micropia is the world's first and only museum dedicated to microbes and micro-organisms.
This exciting place welcomes young and old to discover the world of microbes.
Today, let's go on a journey of discovery.
Here we go!
Micropia: article summary
Micropia: at a glance
The facility opened in 2014 at a cost of 10 million euros and is part of the Artis Amsterdam Royal Zoo in Amsterdam's Plantage district. now includes the Artis Groote museum.
It's housed in part of a monumental building called de Ledenlokalen (built in 1870) which stands on Artisplein, a pretty public square in Artis.
Start your site visit
Entering the museum on the first floor, you take an elevator to the second floor. On the way up, you'll be treated to an animation about the mites living on your eyelashes and on your skin. the even smaller bacteria living on these mites!
The first-floor exhibition takes place in a darkened area and resembles a scientific laboratory, with numerous microscopes and glass containers. Immerse yourself in the world of the infinitely small as soon as you arrive.
Micropia: exceptional interactive exhibits
Numerous interactive exhibits are available, including :
- A body scanner which can show you what types of microbes live on your body
- A Kiss-o-meter which counts the number of microbes transferred during a kiss
- An impressive and colorful exhibition of Petri dishes containing a variety of bacteria as well as everyday household items and what's hidden inside
- A complete collection of animal manure
- A human digestive system preserved
What's more, on site, you'll see films of various decomposing animals.
Get closer to the action
There's a real laboratory on site. Through a window, you can see scientists in white coats undertaking research projects and manage the various exhibitions.
You can then spend several minutes observing the hard work of people who want to know more about the infinitely small.
Micropia: continue your tour on the lower floors
Various other displays and information on bacteria, viruses, fungi and algae are placed throughout the museum. A fully interactive space, you are given a card that you can "stamp" with microbes and examine later under a scanner.
Descend the spiral staircase to the first floor, where the exhibition continues. A large row of screens shows impressive images of microbes.
Important everyday microbes
In the first floor exhibition, you'll learn how microbes are essential to life:
- How seaweed is used in various products
- How microbes are used to make food, biofuels and bioplastics
There are also interesting exhibits on decomposing food. What you exploring all facets of the infinitely small.
Micropia: a place for science and art
On site, you'll discover The Fungal Wall. This is a large-scale work by Dutch artist Lizan Freijsen, using woollen rugs inspired by the beauty of the invisible life around us.
A real a work of art not to be missed.
What are Micropia's opening hours?
You can visit us on site:
- Every day 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
How much does admission cost?
To visit this exhibition, you will need :
- 17,50 € for adults
- 10 € for students
Free admission for children aged 0 to 12, holders of the Museumkaart and I Amsterdam City Card.
You can also choose a ticket combining Artis and Micropia. The latter cost 31 per adult.
How do I get there?
Micropia is within easy walking distance of the Amsterdam center. Head for Waterlooplein and continue east along Middenlaan.
From Amsterdam Central, take the streetcar 14 to ARTIS stop.
Finally, the metro 51, 53 and 54 also serve Waterlooplein.
A visit to Micropia is sure to open your eyes to the hidden world of microbes. I advise you to plan your visit for the early afternoon. You don't want to get there before lunch. Parts of the exhibition could spoil your appetite.
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