National Museum of The Philippines (Pambansang Museo Ng Pilipinas)-
State museum founded in 1910, containing extensive botanical,
geological, zoological, archaeological, historical, ethnological and art
collections. The museum has branches throughout the country, and is
also responsible for the operation of the Planetarium at the Rizal Park
in Manila.
The large and comprehensive National Museum is housed in two different buildings (both located within Rizal Park). Exhibits are categorised in five divisions: art, botany, zoology, geology and anthropology. Among the many archaeological exhibits is the skull of 'Tabon Man', the oldest human remains found in the archipelago. The section devoted to the Filipino People includes the preserved remains and treasures of the San Diego Spanish galleon that sank in Philippine waters in 1600. Not to mention the original Philippines national flag (Pambansang Watawat ng Pilipinas) sown by Marcela Marino de Agoncillo with the help of her daughter Lorenza and Delfina Herbosa de Natividad in 1898 (as seen in the picture above).
Although reportedly short on funding, the museum is well-kept and clean with good facilities and air conditioning which proves extremely welcome on hot days. Photography is permitted but not flash photography. Although perhaps not what one would call a world-class museum, the National Museum of the Philippines is a deeply interesting place to visit for tourists looking to get to grips with the local culture and history. A visit to the museum can be enjoyed by people of all ages, making it a good attraction for those travelling with children in the Philippines.
Address: Padre Burgos Street, Rizal Park
E-mail: education@nationalmuseum.gov.ph
Website: www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph/#page=page-1
Opening times: Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm.
Admission: Php 150 (adults), Php 50 (students). Free admission on Sundays.
picture credit: livejournal.com
