Prague
Open now

People and Their Ancestors: An Exhibition on Human Evolution and Prehistory

Explore the fascinating story of our human ancestors through fossil casts and hyperrealistic sculptures.

The 'People and Their Ancestors' exhibition offers an extensive exploration of human evolution, tracing our lineage across nearly seven million years. Discover the journey from early hominins to modern humans, showcasing rare fossil casts, significant Paleolithic finds from Czech territory, and hyperrealistic sculptures by artist Élisabeth Daynès. Delve into the development of civilization and the shared human story.

About People and Their Ancestors at Czech Museum of Music in Prague

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for People and Their Ancestors at Czech Museum of Music in Prague

Exhibition summary

This long-term exhibition takes visitors on a journey through millions of years of human history, exploring the evolution of humankind from early hominins to modern humans. It features unique discoveries from Czech territory and Europe, including fossil casts and hyperrealistic sculptures.

Curatorial context

The National Museum's long-term exhibition, 'People and Their Ancestors,' offers an extensive exploration of human evolution spanning nearly seven million years. The exhibition traces the lineage from the earliest hominins who descended from trees to the development of anatomically modern humans and their global migration. It showcases casts of rare fossils, including those of australopithecines, early Homo species, and 'lost relatives' like Neanderthals and Homo floresiensis. Significant attention is paid to skeletal adaptations for bipedalism. The exhibition also highlights the arrival of early farmers and the development of civilization, presenting artifacts such as the oldest Paleolithic finds from Czech territory, items from Dolní Věstonice, and evidence of early textile production and copper objects. The narrative culminates with the birth of civilization, emphasizing that the story of human evolution concerns everyone.

Admission and ticket notes

Tickets purchased online are valid for 30 days from purchase for a single entry to the entire Museum Complex, granting access to all long-term exhibitions. Various ticket types are available, including adult, reduced, and free admission for children up to 15 with an adult. Free admission is also provided for individuals with severe disabilities and specific cardholders. Special timed tickets are recommended for the Children's Museum. Purchased tickets cannot be returned or changed.

People and Their Ancestors key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for People and Their Ancestors at Czech Museum of Music in Prague

Venue
Czech Museum of Music
Current status
Open now
Exhibition schedule
From Nov 15, 2023
Artist line / attribution
The exhibition features hyperrealistic sculptures created by French artist Élisabeth Daynès, who reconstructed figures of early ancestors.
More from Czech Museum of Music
Explore additional exhibitions from the same institution
Review other exhibitions from Czech Museum of Music in Prague to compare themes, timelines, and program direction while planning your museum visit.
Watercolor illustration of traditional Czech folk costumes, pottery, and farming tools, depicting rural life and cultural heritage.
Permanent exhibition

Explore Czech Folk Culture: A Permanent Exhibition on Rural Life and Traditions

Uncover 18th-to-mid-20th century daily life, customs, and historical crafts.

This permanent exhibition delves into the rich traditional folk culture of Czech rural communities. Discover their daily life, ancient customs, and year-round rituals from the 18th to mid-20th century.

Folk Culture Exhibition
A watercolor illustration of a museum exhibition hall featuring a large fin whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling, surrounded by animal skeletons and models, with visitors exploring interactive displays.
Permanent exhibition

The Miracles of Evolution: Natural History Exhibition at Czech Museum of Music

Explore animal diversity and adaptation through immersive, interactive science displays.

Witness the wonders of animal evolution spanning 2,000 m2. This exhibition features over 1,500 unique objects, including an iconic fin whale skeleton, and engaging multimedia experiences. Discover species diversity across seven thematic halls.

View Exhibition Details
Watercolor illustration of a museum exhibition hall featuring life-size models of a mammoth and a baby mammoth, with visitors observing fossil displays in glass cases.
Permanent exhibition

Windows into Prehistory: Journey Through Ancient Czech Life and Fossils

Explore ancient eras, fossils, and interactive displays in the Czech territory.

This long-term exhibition details prehistoric life in the Czech territory from the Paleozoic to the Quaternary. Discover over 2,000 exhibits, including unique fossils, life-size animal models, and engaging interactive experiences for families.

Windows into Prehistory
A watercolor illustration of the Cultures of Australia and Oceania exhibition, featuring glass display cases with artifacts like boomerangs, spears, and woven textiles, with a traditional canoe hanging from the ceiling.
Permanent exhibition

Cultures of Australia and Oceania Exhibition at the Náprstek Museum

Explore indigenous artifacts and traditions from island nations.

Journey through the diverse cultures of Australia and Oceania. This long-term exhibition showcases artifacts, spiritual items, and daily life objects from indigenous peoples across the regions. Discover a deeper understanding of their rich heritage.

Exhibition Details
Watercolor illustration of the Pantheon of the National Museum, showcasing its grand domed ceiling, ornate arches, classical sculptures, and ceremonial hall with portraits of Czech cultural figures.
Permanent exhibition

The Pantheon of the National Museum: Czech Arts and History Hall

Exquisite architecture and a portrait gallery of cultural and scientific figures.

Step into this architecturally significant ceremonial hall featuring grand artistic designs. Admire the busts, statues, and paintings that honor influential Czech cultural and scientific personalities. It's a key part of the National Museum's cultural experience.

National Museum Pantheon
Watercolor illustration of Antonín Dvořák's life journey, featuring his portrait surrounded by a viola, glasses, piano, and headphones, with key dates 1842-1904 and 1877, 1894, symbolizing his travels and musical legacy.
Permanent exhibition

The Journeys of Antonín Dvořák: Permanent Exhibition of the Composer's Life

Discover personal items and global paths of a renowned Czech musical icon.

This exhibition at the Antonín Dvořák Museum details the celebrated composer's extensive travels across Europe and America. See authentic personal effects, including his viola and piano, alongside modern graphics that illuminate his Bohemian heritage and international influence.

The Journeys of Dvořák
Prague

Find Current Exhibitions in Prague: Your Guide to Museum Shows

Explore Prague's vibrant art and history through diverse museum exhibitions.

Easily discover what's on display in Prague's museums and cultural institutions. Explore compelling temporary exhibitions covering a wide array of fascinating topics, from historical periods to modern artistic movements.