Azilal Museum – M’Goun Geopark

## Earth sciences in the Central High Atlas Inaugurated on 20 June 2023, the Azilal Museum focuses on Earth and space sciences and the geological, natural and cultural heritage of the M'Goun region. The museum is located in the Central High Atlas, within the territory associated with M'Goun UNESCO Global Geopark, recognised by UNESCO in 2014. Its creation followed an agreement between the Béni Mellal-Khénifra Regional Council and Morocco's National Foundation of Museums. ## From the Big Bang to human history The exhibition route, known as the “Temple of Knowledge”, is circular and divided into thirteen alcoves. It introduces visitors to the origins of the Universe and the solar system, then moves through the processes of geological evolution toward the history of life and humanity. Seven thematic areas address topics including tectonic change and the formation of the Atlas Mountains. Interpretive displays combine explanations of scientific concepts with selected fossils, minerals and archaeological evidence. ## Fossils and the Atlasaurus A central area, the “Fossil Dome”, presents Atlasaurus imelakei, a large sauropod dinosaur known from fossils found in Morocco's High Atlas. The museum also displays mineral specimens, fossils and objects connected with regional archaeological sites and geosites. These collections help explain ancient environments, changing landforms and the evidence that organisms leave in sedimentary rocks over geological time. ## Landscapes, biodiversity and local heritage Alongside geological history, the museum introduces visitors to the region's plant and animal life, architectural traditions and ways of life. The wider M'Goun Geopark is therefore presented as a territory where geodiversity, biodiversity and human history intersect. This approach connects the objects inside the museum with field sites and landscapes of the surrounding mountains. ## Visitor information Address: Avenue Hassan II, Quartier administratif, Azilal. The National Foundation of Museums reports that the museum opens daily except Tuesday; confirm exact hours before travelling. Published prices include 20 MAD for Moroccan adults and residents, 40 MAD for foreign visitors and 10 MAD for under-18s. The museum is separate from [Azilal Cultural Centre](/en/institutions/centre-culturel-azilal), which has its own listing. Sources: [National Foundation of Museums](https://fnm.ma/museums/42), [UNESCO – M'Goun Global Geopark](https://www.unesco.org/en/iggp/geoparks/mgoun).