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The Gibraltar National Museum expanded in 2023 with the opening of its dedicated natural history museum sited at Parson’s Lodge. This new facility provides a permanent space for the study, interpretation, and exhibition of Gibraltar’s rich natural heritage, complementing the historical and cultural focus of the main museum at Bomb House Lane.

A Unique Location

Parson’s Lodge, historically recognised for its military significance, is also an important site for natural history. Situated within the Gibraltar National Park, the site is home to a diverse plant and animal community and serves as a crucial staging post for migratory birds travelling between Africa and Europe. Its coastal position further enhances its ecological value, offering insights into marine and intertidal biology. Additionally, the area sits atop the Rosia breccias, a fossil-rich geological formation that played a significant role in early evolutionary science, first studied in the late 18^th century by Reverend John White.

What to Expect

Visitors to the Natural History Museum can explore:

• Interactive Exhibits: Open-air and enclosed displays covering Gibraltar’s flora, fauna, and conservation efforts.
• Live Rewilding Initiatives: The site is home to species such as Hermann’s tortoises, Iberian water frogs, and wild rabbits, as part of an ongoing rewilding program.
• Educational Activities: Guided tours, open-air workshops, and hands-on conservation experiences led by museum staff and specialists (by prior arrangement only).
• Historical Significance: While focused on natural history, the museum also interprets the broader history of Parson’s Lodge and the Rosia Bay area.

Visitor Information

The museum is open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 14:00, and closed Sundays and public holidays. Special group visits and additional opening hours can be arranged upon request, particularly for tour operators. Entry is free for local residents.

The Natural History Museum at Parson’s Lodge represents the next step in the continuous expansion of Gibraltar’s heritage services, providing an immersive and educational experience in a setting of both ecological and historical importance.