Micropia is the world’s only museum of microbes and you can visit it in Amsterdam. This is one of the most fascinating places I’ve ever seen. Expect a space full of test tubes with bubbly green liquids, real microbes, water bears, creepy crawlies and be prepared to encounter your inner germaphobe.😅
Micropia is the only museum of its kind that displays what would usually be the invisible world of micro-organisms. What I love about this museum is the way in which it makes science and microbiology accessible and interactive.
Even the elevator is a fun experience – but I’m not going to give it all away! You have to experience it for yourself. 😉
Micropia laboratory
There is a working laboratory on site where scientists cultivate and care for the 300 species of microbes that live in Micropia. Laboratory technicians give presentations on subjects such as what microbes eat or how long they live. When we were there the presentation was about symbiosis and how organisms work together for mutual benefit. The talks are short, easy to understand and a great addition to the museum experience.
Body scan
Try out the Body Scan experience when you are there. It scans your body and estimates how many bacteria are on and in your body – be prepared for millions or billions!
The Fungal Wall
The fungal wall, made from hand-tufted, woollen carpets is the largest object ever to be displayed at Micropia. It was made by artist Lizan Freijsen and took about one and a half years to complete.
Good to know
- Micropia is situated right next to ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo.
- It is open from Monday to Sunday: 11:00 – 17:00.
- Visitors have to reserve a time slot.
- Tickets range from €8 to €16. Museum card holders enter free of charge.
- Micropia doesn’t have a restaurant on site, but next door is the beautiful De Plantage restaurant. It is worth a visit!
If you’ve had enough of microbes, perhaps you can see more of Amsterdam. De Wallen is my favourite area of Amsterdam, especially if you look for all its hidden gems. De Koffie Schenkerij at De Oude Kerk has the best carrot cake.
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