Museum of Human Evolution.

Housed in a light-filled glass pavilion designed by Juan Navarro Baldeweg, this museum serves as the definitive interpretive center for the nearby Atapuerca archaeological sites. The layout is conceptually layered: the lower level recreates the Sierra de Atapuerca landscape, showcasing original fossils from four distinct hominid species—some dating back over a million years. Beyond the prehistoric remains, the galleries transition into the biological and cultural evolution of our species. The most striking features are the hyper-realistic sculptures by Élisabeth Daynès, which bring ancestors like Homo antecessor to life with startling detail. It is a rare institution that manages to feel both scientifically rigorous and accessible, connecting ancient stone tools to the complexities of the modern human brain.