9 Must-See Galleries at Nairobi National Museum of Kenya
The Nairobi National Museum of Kenya is a treasure trove of art and culture nestled in the heart of Nairobi. With its rich history and diverse heritage, this popular museum offers visitors a captivating journey through Kenya’s past and present. Among many captivating galleries within the museum, nine must-sees include The Hall of Kenya, The Joy Adamson Gallery, and more. It provides a detailed overview of the nation’s artistic and ancient wonders.
From ancient artifacts and human remains to modern pieces, these galleries showcase the vibrant tapestry of Kenya’s cultural legacy. Prepare to be enchanted as we delve into the most-visited museum, where history comes alive and art tells magical stories.
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Key Facts
1. Overall, Kenya saw some 160,700 visitors to museums, snake parks, and historic sites in 2020.
2. About 32,100 people visited the Nairobi National Museum Kenya, as of 2020.
3. The National Museums in Kenya holds more than 350,000 fossils in its collection, about 700 of which belong to ancient humans.
The History of Nairobi National Museum of Kenya
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Image credit – Google Arts & Culture
1909 – 1922
On March 25, 1909, 10 people had the idea for a museum in Kenya when they met at the home of the then Governor, F.J. Jackson, to discuss starting a Natural History Society for East Africa. Making scientific archives of natural history specimens was one of the first efforts once it was founded. As there was a need for sure to store and display them. The national museum of Kenya was the answer.
On August 16th, 1910, a 30-by-25-foot building that was built close to the Provincial Commissioner’s office was occupied. Mr. T.J. Anderson served as the initial curator. The Governor selected a block of land on Kirk Road for a museum on August 29th, 1910. In 1922, Governor Sir Edward Northey opened it.
1922 – 1930
Where the NNM is situated, on Ainsworth Hill (now Museum Hill), a new location was chosen. In honor of the late Governor Richard Corydon, a former governor of Kenya and avid supporter of the Uganda Natural History Society, it was given the name Coryndon Memorial Museum. Governor Sir Edward Gregg gave this museum its official opening on September 22, 1930, and Dr. Van G.L. Someren served as its curator.
Image credit – Google Arts & Culture
1930 -1965
Under the direction of Dr. R.H. Carcussion, the museum changed its name from Coryndon Memorial Museum to National Museums in December 1964. It was done to reflect Kenya’s new position as a sovereign nation. A board of trustees was set up with Mr. R.E. Leakey serving as the director and Sir Ferdinand Cavendish Bentinck as the board’s chairman.
1965 -2017
The Museum shut its doors to visitors on October 15th, 2005 to undergo a three-year, vital repair and extension project. Given that the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) is in charge of over 26 museums, locations, and monuments, the new name focuses on the museum’s position as a premier facility.
Since the NNM is its flagship museum and was recognized as a research institution in 2017—the first time in its 107-year history—all of its research, both past and present, is managed from this location.
Before these galleries were made open to the public, thorough research was used in preparation. To make these displays successful, a variety of experts from relevant fields collaborated. The items on display are a cast of the actual items. The national museum of Kenya is where the actual objects and any related studies are kept.
The museum provides the following services as a result.
1. Casting
2. Resource center-library services
3. Research
4. Exhibition
5. Venue Rental
6. Training and Consultancy
7. Filmmaking and photography
8. Creation of education programs.
A List of Best Galleries at Nairobi National Museum of Kenya
Finding the top places to visit in Nairobi on a budget? There are many types of museums in Kenya. But the Nairobi National Museum of Kenya is home to many amazing galleries that offer visitors a magical journey through the country’s rich cultural heritage. Here are 9 must-see galleries that you shouldn’t miss on your next trip to Nairobi. But before that, do you want to know the entry fee for residents and non-residents? Read here for the Nairobi national museum entry fee 2023.
[Suggested Read: Top 8 Cultural Things to Do in Nairobi & Where to Stay]
Image credit – National Museums of Kenya
1. The Hall of Kenya
The Hall of Kenya at the Nairobi national museum of Kenya is committed to showcasing the unique material and intangible heritage of the nation. The nature, culture, and history of Kenya can be seen in this gallery. The items on display are evidence of the nation’s rich and varied history. The cultural anthropology section of the museum houses all the knowledge on exhibit, the artifacts, and the research papers.
The stories and customs of the people of Kenya are among the most unique in the world and date back many centuries. Hundreds of calabashes form the showpiece of the Hall of Kenya above. It honors the rich cultural legacy of all Kenyan tribes. It is one of the most interesting places to visit in Nairobi. Scroll down for more Nairobi National Museum photos.
Image credit – https://www.britannica.com/
2. Joy Adamson
Joy Adamson, an illustrator, novelist, and conservationist, lived from 1910 to 1980. She has gained global acclaim for her work in preserving Kenya’s natural and cultural heritage. Joy Adamson was a fascinating figure whose works continue to impact how people approach conservation. Her books and films, which have been vital in saving the diversity and complexity of Kenya’s people and wildlife, have also depicted an important part of her work.
Joy’s inspiring work has driven people all across the world to think about how they can protect their own natural and cultural heritage. The Earth Sciences department of the museum’s Archives area is where all of Joy Adamson’s creations are kept at the Nairobi national museum of Kenya.
Joy Adamson is most known for the amazing tale of Elsa the Lioness, which was captured in the book Born Free. She brought attention to the need to preserve African wildlife and inspired to create the national parks in Kenya. Searching for more places to go in Nairobi? Check out other galleries at the museum.
Image credit – National Museums of Kenya/Facebook
3. The Cycles of Life
Kenyan tribes go through many periods of filtering life. From birth, young to old age, death, and the transition into ancestry. This gallery at the Nairobi national museum of Kenya features a range of cultural customs from Kenyan groups that are related to these various life stages. This gallery offers a richness of tangible and intangible cultural assets to be admired. The Cultural Anthropology section of the museum has all the details on the show here.
Image credit – National Museums of Kenya
4. The Birds of East Africa
East Africa is one of the bird nations of the world, with more than 1300 species. The Birds of East Africa collection serves as a showcase for the region’s vast diversity of birds. They come from far and wide, in all shapes and sizes, from the most simple to the most complex. All of that data is kept in the Osteology section of the Zoology department at the Nairobi national museum of Kenya. Do you want to try the best lounges in Nairobi instead? Keep reading.
5. The Great Hall of Mammals
The Great Hall of Mammals shows the evolution of mammals across time at the Nairobi national museum of Kenya. It displays how they have evolved to migrate, feed, and protect their own. Points of convergence and divergence in the structure of the mammalian world are presented to the visitor in the gallery. The Mammology area of the Zoology department is the place to go if you need more details.
Prepare for a safe up-close encounter with some of Kenya’s well-known safari favorites. The Big Five include lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo. It is one of the top things to do in Nairobi if you are not a thrill seeker.
Image credit – https://legendsandlegaciesofafrica.org/
6. Ahmed the Elephant
Maybe the most well-known elephant in history, Ahmed was given round-the-clock security at Marsabit National Park by Kenyatta, the country’s first president. Because of his huge tusks. The Great Hall of Mammals in the Nairobi national museum of Kenya has Ahmed’s skeleton with the original tusks. And a life-size replica may be seen in the courtyard of the main gallery building.
Image credit – National Museums of Kenya
7. The Cradle of Mankind
In this gallery is a special selection that promotes Kenya as the origin of humanity. This exhibit at the Nairobi national museum of Kenya explores the history of humanity through fossil finds made across Kenya. The museum’s Earth Sciences department has access to all data, artifacts (fossils), and research output.
A small fragment of a hominid skull was discovered by Kamoya Kimeu in August 1984 near Nariokotome, on the western shore of Lake Turkana, on a dry river bank. Being an expert fossil hunter, he was able to identify it since it was a little bit bright in color than the nearby black lava pebble. He discovered further bits close by. And eventually, the entire bank was dug up to uncover the entire skeleton. Despite extensive research, the bones of feet and legs were never found.
Image credit – National Museums of Kenya
8. Historia ya Kenya
Pre-colonial Kenya, the era of colonial authority, and sovereign Kenya appear in the gallery in that order. The Kenya-Uganda Railway, land alienation, and the two world wars are only a few of the vital historic events that have impacted the daily lives of Kenyans. The Cultural Anthropology department at the Nairobi national museum of Kenya is the best place to go if you want to learn more about Kenyan history.
Image credit – National Museums of Kenya
9. Temporary Exhibits
The temporary exhibits at the Nairobi national museum of Kenya showcase some of the most exciting modern artists and parts of Kenya and Africa. It is one of the best places to visit in Nairobi for couples. The Museum offers its services to people and institutions who want to display any information they think is significant. An excellent example is the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), which developed an exhibition about the creation of the Kenya shilling known as “the Numismatic Exhibition”.
Do you want to go inside Nairobi National Museum? The Nairobi National Museum opening hours are from Monday to Sunday: 8:30 am–5:30 pm all year round. Unable to find the Nairobi Museum contacts or reviews? Click below. Are you also interested in luxury hotels in Nairobi? Keep reading.
Stay at Emara Ole Sereni to Enjoy the Nairobi National Museum of Kenya
Being the award-winning hotel in Nairobi Kenya, staying at Emara Ole Sereni is a great choice if you want to enjoy the Nairobi National Museum of Kenya. Where is Ole Sereni located? Are you looking for luxury hotels near JKIA and Wilson Airport? It offers stunning views of the Nairobi National Park, its wildlife, and the city. The hotel provides ease for exploring Nairobi’s main attractions like the Nairobi National Museum.
Emara Ole Sereni is one of the top hotels in Nairobi and offers comfortable and stylish 148 rooms and suites. Featuring modern decor, and high-tech facilities like TV, Wi-Fi, and more. It is ideal for families and couples. You can unwind and enjoy the breathtaking views from the floor-to-ceiling windows.
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