Museu de la Biodiversitat

Museu de la Biodiversitat (Biodiversity Museum) in Ibi is a compact but content-rich natural history museum dedicated to Mediterranean ecosystems. It has been open since 30 September 2004 and occupies the former Payá Hermanos toy factory building at Glorieta Nicolás Payá Jover — a fitting location, given that Ibi is famous as Spain's traditional toy-making town.

What is inside the museum?

The core of the exhibition focuses on plants and animals typical of the Mediterranean region, displayed within reconstructions of their natural habitats. Visitors can see how Mediterranean forests look and how the surrounding land has traditionally been used for crops. The museum doesn't shy away from harder topics either: it addresses the illegal trade in wildlife and the threat posed by invasive species to native flora and fauna. This gives the visit a genuine educational angle rather than just a decorative nature display.

Who runs the museum?

The Biodiversity Museum is the result of a partnership between Ibi Town Council, through its Environment Department, and the University of Alicante, specifically its Iberoamerican Centre for Biodiversity (CIBIO). That partnership gives the exhibits a solid scientific backing rather than a purely curated collection, and the institution regularly organizes educational activities and workshops for school groups.

How do you get there, and when should you visit?

The museum sits in the centre of Ibi, in Alicante province, at Glorieta Nicolás Payá Jover 2 — easy to reach by car or by local bus from Alicante or Alcoy. It's closed on Mondays. From Tuesday to Saturday it opens from 10:00 to 13:00 and again from 16:00 to 19:00, while on Sundays and public holidays hours run from 11:00 to 14:00. Morning visits are a good idea if you want to avoid school groups, which often fill the rooms later in the day.

How much does it cost to visit?

A standard ticket costs €3, a reduced ticket without a guided tour costs €1.50, and a reduced ticket including a guided tour costs €2. Residents of Ibi and members of the University of Alicante community can get an annual pass for €5. Group bookings or guided-visit requests can be arranged by phone (965 55 24 50) or email (museo.bio@ibi.es).

Who is this museum for?

It works well as a stop on a family day out around Alicante province — the displays are accessible enough for children while still offering enough substance to interest adults curious about the region's natural history. Given its modest size, a visit typically takes about an hour, so it's easy to combine with other things to see in Ibi, such as the old town or the nearby toy-industry heritage sites.

Frequently asked questions

Is the museum open on Mondays? No, the museum is closed every Monday. It's open Tuesday through Sunday, with different hours depending on the day.

How long does a visit take? Given the compact exhibition space, a typical visit lasts around 45 to 60 minutes, or longer if you book the full guided tour.

Do I need to book tickets in advance? Individual visitors don't need a reservation, but groups and anyone wanting a guided tour should contact the museum by phone or email beforehand.

Is the museum suitable for children? Yes, the exhibition on Mediterranean habitats and species is presented in an accessible way for younger visitors, making it a good addition to a family trip to Ibi.