Zoological Museum of the University of Patras
The Zoological Museum of the University of Patras was established in 1968 through the initiative of Professor I. Ondrias and is today operated by the Department of Biology, within the Section of Animal Biology.
It is located on the University of Patras campus in Rio, Patras, where it occupies part of the building shared with the Departments of Biology and Mathematics.
The museum hosts an extensive collection of zoological specimens, mainly representing Greek fauna. Its exhibition includes more than 60 display cabinets featuring preserved or mounted animals, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the diversity of wildlife in Greece and gain knowledge about their characteristics and habitats. The presentation is enriched with carefully designed dioramas that recreate natural environments, helping visitors better understand how species live and interact in nature.
The collection primarily consists of vertebrates, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals, while also featuring invertebrates such as insects, mollusks, crustaceans, corals, sponges, and echinoderms. In total, the museum’s scientific collections include thousands of specimens that are also available for research purposes.
In recent years, the museum has engaged in the digitization of its collections through projects such as “Ornithopolis,” which provide electronic catalogues and virtual access to specimens, while also promoting environmental education and awareness of urban biodiversity.
Overall, the Zoological Museum serves as an important center for education, research, and environmental awareness, combining scientific study with public engagement and contributing to a better understanding of animal life and biodiversity.
