The renovated 1940 neoclassical Agriculture and Commerce Building wowed everyone when it reopened as the National Museum of Natural History in May 2018—thanks to an arresting design element addition. Not even a week later, social media was flooded with photographs of the museum’s imposing atrium, which resembled a DNA helix. Architect Dominic Galicia and interior designer Tina Periquet collaborated to bring the Tree of Life to fruition as the centerpiece of the museum.
Exploring Architecture and Biodiversity at Manila’s Natural Museum of Natural History
“One of the goals of the project is to bring (the building’s original architect) Antonio Toledo’s architectural expression to full effulgence, framing the new Courtyard and its anchoring Tree of Life canopy, creating a meaningful and rich museum environment for the collection,” said Galicia.
For most visitors, the Atrium took the main starring role. However, as one lingered through the many galleries of the museum, one discovered that there was more to the National Museum of Natural History than its eye-popping architecture and interior design.
Fascinating Botany and Zoology
The hanging skeletal remains of Lolong—the country's largest crocodile in captivity, who passed away in 2013—served as a striking preview of what awaited visitors inside. Beyond that, one found an overwhelming collection of artifacts and information regarding the botanical and zoological history of the Philippines.
A total of twelve dedicated galleries circled the museum upward through the succeeding levels. Walking around the well-lit hallways adorned with clean white walls and high ceilings added an atmosphere ideal for a relaxed day of learning.
Galleries and Exhibits
The first floor housed a gallery that accommodated various rotating exhibitions throughout the year. There was also a dedicated Function Hall where organizations could host educational talks. Moving upward, the second floor was home to Gallery XI (Our Natural Inheritance) and Gallery XII (Themed Exhibitions).
The ocean-themed galleries, namely Gallery IX (Mangrove Forests and Beaches) and Gallery X (Marine Realm), were located on the third floor.
The fourth floor shifted its focus to the terrestrial highlands, featuring Gallery V (Various Types of Forests), Gallery VI (Lowland Farms), Gallery VII (Rocky Limestone Karsts), and Gallery VIII (Freshwater Rivers and Wetlands).
The remaining tapestry of Philippine biodiversity was displayed on the fifth floor: Gallery I (Philippine Biodiversity), Gallery II (Geological Character of the Philippines), Gallery III (Underground Minerals), and the fascinating Gallery IV (Life Through Time section).
The sixth floor was currently slated for further development and would eventually house the museum's formal Conference Center.
An Immersive Learning Experience
Unlike some traditional institutions where one might feel pressured to absorb more raw data than one could handle, the National Museum of Natural History invited visitors to set their own pace. The bright, lively vibe of the interior was enhanced by an eco-friendly architectural design that welcomed beautiful ambient light through the roof's glass panes. It created the refreshing impression of being outdoors rather than indoors, making it easy to stroll leisurely through the spaces.
The institution had also integrated digital technology to blend seamlessly with standard curatorial displays. Visitors could check out viewing rooms for documentaries, detailed multi-sensory dioramas, and interactive exhibits like the digital Globe—one of the museum’s top attractions.
That giant digital Earth projected interactive visuals demonstrating how climate change affected the planet by tracking shifting weather patterns. There was also a plant-tracing den where future botanists could closely examine specimens of flora endemic to the Philippine islands.
Beyond the Selfies
I must admit that the architecture of the National Museum of Natural History teemed with stunning, Instagrammable corners around every turn. However, I highly advised everyone—especially students—not to visit just for the selfies. Take your sweet time exploring each individual gallery and amass as much natural knowledge as you can while enjoying the journey.
While you’re at it, and if you have more time to spare, be sure to drop by the other landmarks situated within the National Museum Complex: the National Museum of Fine Arts and the National Museum of Anthropology. Nearby, the National Planetarium was also well worth a visit, while a short jeepney ride would take you straight to the historic Intramuros Museum.
Visitor Information Guide
