Barcelona - Science Museum Museu de la Ciència

The Museu del Ciència lies at the foot of Tibidabo. It is sponsored by the Caixa de Pensions de Catalunya (Pension Insurance Company of Catalonia), which is also active in other spheres as a supporter of cultural pursuits. The museum building, erected for charitable purposes in the early 20th C., has been suitably extended. Nearby runs the city ring road, constructed specially for the forthcoming Olympic Games and separating the museum from Tibidabo.

The aim of the extensive experimental collection is to explain - mainly by means of simple experiments which people can carry out themselves - natural history phenomena and relationships to as wide a spectrum of the populace as possible. The main emphasis is on ecology, optical, accoustic and sensorial awareness, with considerable space devoted to each.

Outside, near the entry kiosk, an old submarine has been put on display, partly opened up so that the interior can be inspected.

The museum is particularly valuable for children of primary school age upwards, not least because of the many opportunities for personal experiments and activities; they should spend at least half a day there. For smaller children there is a play-room (with child minders), equipped with toys on specific themes.