Zoological Museum Kiel

A research collection of the university

The Zoological Museum is part of Kiel University and looks back on a long scientific tradition. Its collection served, and still serves, research and teaching, and grew over generations of scientists into one of the most extensive natural history collections in northern Germany. The historic exhibition hall preserves countless specimens, some more than a century old. The museum is therefore not only a place to view exhibits but also a living archive of biodiversity. Admission is free, making it a low-threshold place of education for all generations.

Whale skeletons and exotic animals

On entering, the huge whale skeletons immediately impress, including a sperm whale and a fin whale, whose dimensions make the scale of these ocean giants comprehensible. Alongside them stand thousands of animal specimens — from the local Baltic fauna to exotic species from distant continents. Bird collections, insect cases and corals round out the display and show the full breadth of the animal kingdom. The dense, classical presentation has a particular charm and invites close inspection. For children, the encounter with the immense skeletons is often the most memorable experience of the visit.

An outing for families and schools

The museum is especially popular with families and school groups, because it conveys knowledge about animals and habitats in a playful way and charges no admission. It lies in the Düsternbrook district near the fjord and combines well with a walk along the Kiellinie or a visit to the nearby Kunsthalle. On rainy days the covered hall offers a worthwhile indoor destination. It is conveniently reached from the city centre by bus or bike. Anyone planning a day of learning and nature themes will find an ideal starting or stopping point here.