Museo Nacional de Antropología, National anthropology museum in Madrid, Spain.
Museo Nacional de Antropología is a three-story museum displaying extensive collections from Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The holdings span ethnographic objects, religious artifacts, and everyday items representing cultures from around the world.
The museum was founded in 1875 under King Alfonso XII, originally as an anatomical museum based on Dr. Pedro González de Velasco's vision. Over time it transformed into an institution dedicated to documenting world cultures and ethnography.
The museum displays objects from countries with historical ties to Spain, particularly the Philippines and Equatorial Guinea. These collections offer insight into how people in those regions lived and practiced their traditions.
The museum is located at Avenida Alfonso XII 68, directly across from Atocha station, making it easy to access by public transport. Keep in mind that opening hours vary by day and weekends tend to be busier than weekdays.
The museum houses rare objects such as Jivaro shrunken heads, colorful Andean Carnival masks, and Inuit sun goggles. These special pieces in the Americas collection on the second floor reveal craftsmanship and belief systems that are little known today.
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