You know that 1929 Disney animation of the Skeleton Dance? It’s the one that usually gets played around Halloween. If it creeps you out, you’ll want to steer clear of this this museum. Curated by artist Bruce Mahalski—who is known for creating intricate and strikingly beautiful sculptures and masks made out of bones—this 1870s Victorian villa houses an extensive skull collection (including, yes, human skulls) alongside plastinated and mummified animals, ethnological art, and other unusual cultural artefacts. But what truly sets this macabre museum apart—other than the obvious—are the stories that Mahalski tells with his placards, carefully and colorfully identifying each object’s provenance. Mahalski believes the museum, which is set in his home, is his greatest work of art. He’s usually on-site and very happy to answer questions. As the sign on his desk reads, he’s “actually very friendly” despite his bone-collecting ways.
Dunedin
Travel Guide
Dunedin› Attraction
Dunedin Museum of Natural Mystery
61 Royal Terrace
Our Rating
Hours
Friday 12pm–5pm, Sat–Sun 10am–5pm
Phone
021/0329-906.
Prices
Entry by donation
Web site
Dunedin Museum of Natural Mystery
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.