The CosmoCaixa building is a beautiful example of Modernist architecture, and is one of the largest, most exciting and diverse museums in Europe. It offers interactive insights into all the different disciplines of science, for adults and children alike. Located on Carrer d’Isaac Newton, it is easily accessible both on the L7 line (Avinguda Tibadabo,) or the L3 line (Penitents, and then walking. With a price of 4 euros for adults, and free entrance for children, what’s stopping you!
Run by the social foundation La Caixa, CosmoCaixa’s aim is to exhibit all the different elements of science and its principles, in a clear, dynamic and interactive way. You will find physical, technical, geological, chemical and mathematical relations all explained in an easily accesible way, in order to further our understanding of this fascinating planet and cosmos.
Dynamic exhibits include a Foucault pendulum, which demonstrates the earth’s constant rotation as it swings in a straight arc. There is also a wave stimulator, illustrating how waves form the shores, and a sand storm generator, where you can see the process behind the formation of sand dunes. Optic and acoustic experiments bring everything in the museum to life through fun and exciting visual experiments. The planetarium invites you to look up at the glistening stars, and outside among the spacious picnic areas the two huge satellite dishes teach visitors how easily sound waves are transmitted.
The eclectic mix of temporary and permanent exhibitions are designed to stimulate knowledge and opinion of science, through visual aids and physical activities. The 6 permanent exhibitions each have something to say for themselves, brining to life our dynamic and diverse planet.
One of the main attractions is the Flooded Forest, a 1,000 m2 jungle greenhouse, where you can experience both the wet and dry aspects of the Amazonian rainforest. Amazonian trees grow tall alongside more than 100 represented living species, from birds to insects, frogs to piranhas, and insects to alligators. Moving on to the Geological Wall, geological formations are displayed showing all the related processes, from erosion to volcanism, and faults to sedimentation. All the rocks in this exhibition are from Catalonia, highlighting the diverse geological landscape present in this region of Spain.
The Hall of Matter covers evolution from the Big Bang, breaking evolution into four separate phases: the origin of matter, the first living organism, the conquest of symbolic intelligence, and the birth of civilisation. Moving on to more child orientated learning, the Clik and Flash exhibition uses games to encourage children to learn about science through observation, play and deduction. The Bubble Planetarium, aimed at children aged 3-8, guides them through the key phases of astronomy. Finally, the Touch, Touch! exhibition houses a diverse array of living creatures from around the world and the Mediterranean.
Allow yourself enough time to fully explore this fascinating museum, so you can enjoy every aspect of its interactive nature, whilst learning many interesting facts about science and our planet. Not only to be enjoyed by children, this museum appeals to everyone and is also a fun family day out.
Given that it is located up by Tibadabo, the tallest mountain in the Serra de Collserola, why not spend the afternoon here before taking the historic Tramvia Blau and then funicular up to Tibadabo to enjoy the breathtakingly spectacular views over the city and coastline. Definitely one not to be missed!
Article by Holly Ogdon
