Museo Nacional de Historia Natural

The National Museum of Natural History is the centerpiece of Parque Quinta Normal. Paul Lathoud, a French architect, designed the building for Chile's first international exposition in 1875. After suffering damage from successive earthquakes, the neoclassical structure was rebuilt and enlarged. There are large dioramas of stuffed animals against painted backdrops, descriptions of wrongs committed against indigenous people, and occasionally, paleontologists working in glass-walled exhibits that you can watch. The skeleton of an enormous blue whale hangs in the central hall, delighting children of all ages. Exhibits are not labeled in English, but audio guides in English are available.

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