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Monaco Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology: the new exhibit in a blink of a butterfly.

Updated: Dec 15

Can the beating of wings of a butterfly in Monaco cause a tornado in Texas? This question is inspired by the theory that Edward Lorenz, renowned climatologist, developed in the '60s. In recent times, a public groundswell of opinion has given the role of the "butterfly" to human beings, considering the significant impacts they are generating on the biosphere. A unique exhibition, unveiled at the Monaco Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology on the 1st December 2024, explores the bonds among various animal species. “L’Effet Papillon, la Pré-histoire des Animaux” (Butterfly Effect, the Pre-history of Animals) shows a series of emblematic archaeological collections as a testament to the richness of prehistoric fauna in Monaco and the Mediterranean region.


The meaningful showroom is now integral part of the museum tour. The Effet Papillon is meant to witness the serious risk of biodiversity loss we are witnessing as a result of the sudden change in natural ecosystems largely caused by human activities. This leads to an imbalance in the natural regeneration capacity which could irreparably compromise living conditions.


Unwilling to emphasise catastrophes, visitors will be able to discover key species present in Monaco's region in Palaeolithic and Neolithic, together with a parade of fascinating specimens from distant lands, to stress the pivotal role played by fauna in the evolutionary chain of Planet Earth.



This immersive and pedagogical exhibition, by the will of the Gouvernement Princier, the Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, the Ville de Nice and other leading players (e.g.: Parc Naturel du Mercantour, Musée de Terra Amata, Fondation Donnadieu, Laboratoire du Lazaret, etc.) offers a new look through memorabilia and scientific repertory, notably: the most popular Siberian Mammoth, as part of the Princely collection; a multidisciplinary research about the ibex, inspiring mountain animal since the Paleolithic, and a series of animal figurines from all continents and all time to witness the close link between Nature and Humans.

Last but non least, a section dedicated to insects and butterflies, with special focus on endemic and exotic species closes the exhibition, highlighting the diversity and beauty of this amazing microcosm.


The Effet Papillon finally gives special attention to conservation initiatives and environmentally friendly actions carried out in the Principality, involving two major partners: the Direction de l’Environnement (Monaco Environment Directorate) within the Princely Government, promoter of a dedicated survey on biodiversity and implementer of the National Strategy for Biodiversity; and the Jardin Animalier (Monaco Wildlife Garden), constantly committed to preserve endangered species and its awareness-raising actions.


Photo >> The Siberian Mammoth, discovered in Siberia, 1,000 km east of the Lena River, and reconstructed during several scientific expeditions (from 1991 to 2003). The skeleton, measuring 5 m long by 3.30 m high and 2.20 m wide, is currently on display at the © Monaco Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology

The new exhibition is being followed by in-depth workshops, guided tours, thematic conferences, multimedia projection sections and leisure activities addressed to the next generation, allowing the youngest to get closer and understand the world of Prehistory.

Archaeologists, ethologists, environmentalists, fauna specialists and photographers, operating on the Alps and the surrounding regions, will animate the rich programme of events. ***


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By Maurice Abbati


Cover page of PhD manual by Maurice Abbati




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