The Meteora Natural History Museum and the Mushroom Museum are housed together in about 1,100 sq.m. in Kalabaka, in the Meteora region of Thessaly. The two museums under one roof include the Zoological Museum — exhibiting over 350 species of birds and mammals — and the Mushroom Museum, featuring around 250 different species of mushrooms.
The animal collection is of excellent quality, sourced from Europe’s best taxidermists and including many rare specimens. The mushroom exhibits are hand-crafted sculptures by local artisans, reproduced in complete resemblance of colour and size to natural ones, and presented in three phases of growth to illustrate their life cycle.
Animals and mushrooms are displayed in dioramas simulating their natural environments — forest, wetlands, alpine zone — creating an extraordinary aesthetic that delights both young and adult visitors. The museum has received warm appraisals from major media nationwide and consistently earns praise on TripAdvisor for its theatrical settings and pioneering presentation.
The museum also hosts painting and sculpture exhibitions, reflecting the founders’ belief that nature and environment are inextricably linked to cultural heritage. Its operation is guided by the scientific knowledge of the University of Athens, its official scientific advisor.
The visit extends to the museum’s café, with views over the rocks of Meteora, and concludes at the retail shop — where visitors can find unique souvenirs and wild mushrooms of exceptional quality in distinctive packaging, bearing the logo and guarantee of the Museum.
Museum Visit and Guided Tasting
- Zoological Museum: Discover over 350 bird and mammal species from across the region in an exceptional collection sourced from Europe’s best taxidermists — including many rare specimens rarely seen in any museum.
- Mushroom Museum: Explore 250 meticulously crafted mushroom sculptures created by local artisans — experiencing the extraordinary diversity of wild mushroom species in a uniquely educational and artistic space.
- Truffle & Wild Mushroom Experience: Learn about the wild edible mushrooms and truffles found in the forests of Thessaly and discover how to identify and appreciate the extraordinary gastronomy they offer.
