A new cultural space in León
The Museum of Collections of the University of León (MULE) is one of the city’s newest museums, but also one of the fastest to capture the attention of both visitors and locals. It was officially inaugurated on January 25, 2023, in the building of the former Faculty of Mines, a historic site located on Calle Jesús Rubio, right in the center of León.
The purpose of this museum is to gather, preserve and display the scientific and educational heritage accumulated over more than 150 years at the University of León and its predecessor institutions, such as the School of Veterinary Medicine and the School of Commerce.
In just its first year, the museum welcomed over 6,000 visitors, quickly establishing itself as a must-see cultural spot for anyone seeking a different kind of experience in León.
A journey through its collections
MULE offers a rich museographic experience where science meets history and curiosity.
- Zoological collections: over 7,000 insects and arthropods, 2,325 birds (one of the most important collections in Spain), and around 400 mammals, either taxidermied or preserved as skins, skeletons, and anatomical samples.
- Biodiversity dioramas: 17 recreations of ecosystems along the Camino de Santiago, combining flora, fauna and cultural interpretation.
- Historical collections: educational items used throughout the university’s history, such as the famous Auzoux anatomical horse (1865), a dismantlable model for studying equine anatomy.
- Entomological collections: more than 25,000 butterflies and beetles, many donated by the naturalist Francisco Murciego.
Every room offers a new surprise, making this museum a vibrant encounter with science and education.
The building: academic history in stone
The museum is housed in the former Faculty of Mines, a remarkable building that once formed part of León’s historic university complex. Its architecture reflects León’s long academic tradition dating back to the 19th century, now transformed into a modern exhibition space while preserving its historical identity.
Walking through its halls is both an architectural and cultural journey.
Visiting experience
The museum is designed to be educational, accessible and engaging for all audiences.
- Guided tours only: all visits are carried out with specialized guides, in small groups of up to 30 people.
- Duration: around 90 minutes.
- Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 – 14:00
- Friday and Saturday: 10:00 – 14:00 and 17:00 – 19:30
- Closed on Mondays and Sundays
- Admission fees:
- General: €5
- Groups (min. 10 people): €4
- Reduced (ULE students, seniors, large families): €2
- Super reduced (children under 6, unemployed, disabled visitors, ICOM members): €1
In addition, MULE organizes temporary exhibitions and educational activities throughout the year, so there is always something new to see.
Museum curiosities
- The taxidermied tiger is one of the most photographed pieces in the museum.
- Many of its collections were patiently assembled over decades by university professors and researchers.
- The Camino de Santiago dioramas not only showcase flora and fauna, but also highlight the cultural and spiritual meaning of the pilgrimage route.
- The museum is fully inclusive and accessible, making it ideal for family visits.
How to get there & planning your day
MULE is located at Calle Jesús Rubio nº 2, just steps from Plaza de Santo Domingo and Calle Ancha. If you stay at León Apartamentos, you can walk there in under 10 minutes from any of our centrally located apartments.
A perfect plan:
- Visit MULE in the morning.
- Enjoy lunch in the nearby Romantic Quarter or Barrio Húmedo.
- Continue your afternoon exploring the Cathedral or the Basilica of San Isidoro.
A full day of culture and gastronomy, all within walking distance.
León Apartamentos: your cultural stay in León
If you are planning to visit the Museum of Collections of the University of León and explore the city’s cultural treasures, León Apartamentos is your perfect choice for accommodation.
Our modern, fully equipped apartments are located right in the historic center, just a short walk from museums, monuments, and the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with family and friends, our apartments provide comfort, privacy and the best location to enjoy León.
Book your stay today and combine the discovery of MULE with the comfort of staying in the heart of León.
