MICROPIA

Discover the invisible world all around us at the world’s first microbe museum.

MICROPIA • MAKE FRIENDS WITH MICROBES

Micropia is a kind of futuristic zoo with 300 species of microorganisms. Most of us think only of “harmful” microbes if we think of microorganisms at all. But these creatures live in and around us and are responsible for our very survival.

Did you know that you have about 1.5 kilos of microbes living on and in you? They help you digest food, regulate your hormones, and make you different from your friends. Each person has their own special mix. You can share them with your close friends and family by touching and kissing. Find out how many at the kiss-o-meter at Micropia!

It is fitting that the first museum of this kind is located in the Netherlands. The first person to ever see bacteria was a certain Meneer van Leeuwenhoek from Delft who looked at things through a microscope he made himself. He called the creatures “animalcules” and you can check out his microscope at the museum.

Head upstairs in the elevator and you’re in for a surprise. When you arrive at the second floor you’ll see the tree of life, of which we are only a minuscule part! Check out the microscopes and take a look at the magnified creatures. Learn how the lab works, and don’t miss the body scans. This cool interactive – and super space age – exhibit will tell you about the billions of microbes in and on you!

Some of my favorite exhibits in the museum are the ones about food and every day objects. So many of the things we eat are thanks to yeast and bacteria, and at Micropia you can also check out what happens as these foods go bad.

Micropia is a fascinating museum for anyone interested in science or curious about the invisible life around us. The museum uses cutting-edge technology and design to educate and entertain. We highly recommend a visit!

Get your Micropia tickets in advance here!

Combine a visit to Micropia with a trip to Artis zoo, and grab a bite to eat at Cafe Restaurant Plantage. Or go further afield and check out Hortus Botanicus or the Tropenmuseum. This year Micropia is open for Museumnacht for the first time, and it’s sure to be fun and fascinating!

Micropia
Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, Amsterdam

TOP TIP: If you plan to visit more than three or four museums within the year, we recommend the Museumkaart for locals. The price of €59 is worth it as entrance to each museum is around €15-20 for adults. If you are visiting Amsterdam take a look at the iAmsterdam card which gives you free transport around the city as well as free entry to many museums and attractions in Amsterdam and beyond. Check here for more information and to purchase the iAmsterdam card online. Another option is the Holland Pass which grants free and discounted access to several museums and attractions. Check here for more information on the Holland Pass.

Want to know more about Micropia? Check out this video!