Nestled within the urban landscape of Tashkent lies a portal to the past: the Geology Museum, a singular and unparalleled cultural institution. It stands as a custodian of Uzbekistan’s geological wealth, showcasing an array of precious stones, minerals, and relics from both archaeological and paleontological contexts. This repository of natural history first opened its doors to the public in 1988, inviting visitors to delve into the earth’s storied past.
The museum’s collection is the culmination of 75 years of meticulous exploration by Uzbekistan’s geological service. The country’s terrain is a treasure trove of geological marvels, from ancient caves and mountains sculpted over eons, to deserts that whisper tales of their aquatic origins, and plateaus composed of rocks that chronicle the epochs of our planet. The ongoing work of geological expeditions continues to unearth new findings, each adding a piece to the puzzle of Earth’s history and enriching the museum’s extensive display.
With over 50,000 items in its collection, the Geology Museum offers a mere glimpse of its riches to visitors, presenting thousands of specimens categorized by theme. The museum boasts 12 exhibition halls, each dedicated to one of nine subjects, including mineralogy, geology, the history of Uzbekistan, paleontology, ancient mining practices, and the geological studies of the Kitab Reserve, among others.
The Geology Museum is more than a static display; it is a dynamic center for learning and discovery. It engages in a wide range of scientific and educational activities, including guided tours for schoolchildren that illuminate the geological bounty of Uzbekistan. Furthermore, the museum fosters international collaboration, partnering with similar institutions abroad to organize exhibitions and pursue joint research initiatives.
Significantly, in April 2011, the museum embarked on a new chapter, relocating to a modern facility adjacent to the Museum of Fine Arts. This move symbolizes the museum’s ongoing commitment to preserving and interpreting the geological narrative of Uzbekistan for future generations.
The museum is currently closed due to relocation.
Tours in Uzbekistan
