This is Krapina’s highlight, just west of the centre. Built into a vertical rock and fronted with a glass wall, this cavernous two-floor space has high-tech exhibits tracing the history and geology of the region, with trilingual signage.
After an introductory video in the main hall, the walk through the museum is designed to emulate a journey of discovery back to the origins of the Neanderthals, with subterranean chambers, hyper-realistic dioramas and lots of interactive games. Don’t miss the entrance to the 2nd floor, set in a dark passageway with funky lights.
The outdoor part of the museum, the leafy hill where the remains were found, contains a display of sculpted life-sized models of Neanderthals engaged in everyday activities, such as wielding clubs and throwing stones.
Last admission for the day is one hour before the official closing time.