Museu Paleontològic d'Elx

Museu Paleontològic d'Elx (MUPE) is the only paleontology museum in the entire province of Alicante, tucked into the historic Raval quarter of Elche. Opened in 2004, it now holds roughly 60,000 specimens, with close to a thousand on permanent display — and, notably for visitors, the overwhelming majority of the collection consists of genuine fossils rather than replicas.

What will you see inside?

The exhibition spans two floors with distinctly different focuses. The ground floor covers paleontology in general terms, featuring highlights such as fossils considered the oldest known porcupine remains in the world and an impressive roughly 5-metre mosasaur skeleton brought from Morocco. The upper floor narrows the lens to the region itself, tracing the geological history of the province of Alicante and neighbouring areas — showing how the landscape now enjoyed from the beaches of the Costa Blanca took shape over millions of years.

The collection also includes minerals and stones, plus a notable set of amber specimens ranking among the oldest known in Europe. For anyone curious about geology, this is one of the few chances in the region to see amber of this age up close.

How do you get there?

The museum sits at Plaça de Sant Joan 3, right in the heart of the Raval district — one of the oldest parts of Elche, just a short walk from the city's main sights, such as the Palmeral and the Basílica de Santa María. Thanks to its central location, a visit to MUPE pairs easily with exploring the old town on foot, with no need for public transport.

Who is this museum for?

MUPE appeals to families with children as much as to adults with an interest in natural history. The large, well-preserved mosasaur skeleton makes an impression regardless of age, and the relatively compact exhibition space keeps a visit from feeling like a slog — expect an hour, maybe two, rather than a full day out. It's a solid pick for anyone in Elche looking for something beyond the city's Moorish history and palm groves, and it also works well as a backup plan on days when outdoor sightseeing gets rained out.

When should you visit?

Since the entire exhibition is indoors, MUPE works year-round, including the hot summer months when Elche's temperatures climb and the museum's air-conditioned rooms offer welcome relief from the heat outside. It's worth checking current opening hours directly on the museum's website beforehand, as they can vary by season and around public holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the fossils at MUPE real, or mostly replicas? The large majority of the pieces on display are genuine fossils rather than copies — one of the features that sets the museum apart from similar institutions.

How much time should I set aside for a visit? Given the compact two-floor layout, an hour to two hours is usually enough to see everything at a comfortable pace.

Is the museum suitable for children? Yes, large specimens like the mosasaur skeleton and the accessible way exhibits are presented make MUPE a popular stop for families.

Is MUPE close to central Elche? Yes, the museum is located in the Raval district, within easy walking distance of the city's main landmarks, making it simple to combine with a stroll through the old town.