Madrid Geomineral Museum: minerals, fossils and free admission

Updated on October 5, 2026

The Museo Geominero occupies the headquarters of Spain's Geological and Mining Institute in Chamberí. Beneath a large glass ceiling, wooden display cases contain minerals, rocks and fossils: the building is as much a part of the visit as the collections. This scientific museum belongs to IGME-CSIC and admission is free. It makes a rewarding cultural stop north of the centre, especially in the morning, as it closes at 14:00.

Highlights

The main hall

Take time to look at the layout of the hall, its historic cabinets and surrounding galleries. Light from the glass ceiling changes the appearance of the collections throughout the morning.

The minerals

Compare the colours, crystal shapes and locations recorded on the labels. Sets of specimens help explain how a single mineral can have very different appearances.

The fossils

Choose a few cabinets and read about the geological periods and origins of the specimens. With children, comparing a few shapes is more rewarding than trying to cover every collection.

Practical info

Tips

Admission is free (prices checked in October 2026). Individual self-guided visits do not require booking; activities and group visits have separate arrangements. Allow around an hour as a suggested introduction, longer if you read the labels. For step-free access, ask staff about the side ramp; Braille resources and individual hearing loops can be requested from the gallery attendant.

How to get there

Calle de Ríos Rosas, 23, 28003 Madrid, in the IGME headquarters. Metro Ríos Rosas (line 1) or Alonso Cano (line 7), then walk. Do not confuse the entrance with the neighbouring School of Mining.