Most Bizarre Museums Around the Globe

Almost every major city in the world is home to at least one or two major museums. Some are dedicated to science and history, while others are dedicated to art and culture. Each has a collection of artifacts or exhibits sure to educate or amaze each and every visitor who happens to pass through.

On the other hand, there are a handful of museums that house collections of items we wouldn’t expect to see in one place. Most of these bizarre museums started out as personal collections and involved into monstrosities that pique the curiosity of travelers from all over the world. We can only hope you appreciate these questionable destinations as much as we did!

Sulabh International Museum of Toilets, India
Located in New Delhi, India is the Sulabh International Museum of Toilets. This museum was created to help spread the not only history of the development of the toilet, but also to promote its use in a country where open defecation is still practiced by millions. Granted, toilets are only available to about two thirds of the population. We just hope that the other third won’t use the ones on display at the museum!

Goreme UFO Museum, Turkey

In Goreme, Turkey you’ll find the Goreme UFO Museum. The people in Goreme live in homes located in rock formations and caves. One cave is dedicated to UFOs and UFO sightings. You’ll find a gigantic collection of newspaper clippings and articles that talk about UFO sightings along with a full-size depiction of an alien examining a human that has been taken hostage.

The Paris Sewer Museum, France

In Paris, France you’ll find a museum dedicated to the sewer system. The Paris Sewer Museum seems weird (and it is) and may not smell so great (the museum isn’t that bad), but it’s also rich with history. Paris began to build its sewer system in the 13th century, making it the oldest in the world. Choices, choices - will you visit an 800 year old sewer pipe or stick with the Parisian art?

The Museum of Questionable Medical Devices, United States

The Museum of Questionable Medical Devices is located in Minnesota, United States. It used to have a private location but is now located within the Science Museum of Minnesota. Here you will find a collection of contraptions once believed to cure headaches, fight heart disease, cure prostate problems (guys will not be amused by the Rector Rotor), and study the skull!

Icelandic Phallological Museum, Iceland

Let’s face it - not everyone on earth is scrambling to visit Iceland. Those that do will be either intrigued or disgusted by what they find. The Iceland Phallological Museum in Husavik houses an incredibly large collection of animal penis specimens. If the animal can be found in Iceland, its penile tissue will be on display. Judging by the numbers, there are quite a few animal species in Iceland.

The Cat Museum, Malaysia

Kuching, Malaysia is named to honor cats so we weren’t surprised to find a museum dedicated to the furry critters. In The Cat Museum you’ll find historical displays and information about cats being mummified with their owners in Egypt. Browse the museum’s gigantic collection of cat memorabilia or learn about all of the cat species in the world - it’s up to you!

Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography, Russia

Located in Kunstkammer in St. Petersburg, Russia, the Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography is not for those with weak stomachs. There is a lot of freaky stuff floating in formaldehyde in this museum, ranging from brains to deformed fetuses and human body parts. Apparently Peter the Great had an unusual penchant for flesh. The building is beautiful, but the inside? Just a tad bit curious.

The Museum of Witchcraft, England

Opened in 1951, the Museum of Witchcraft in Cornwall, England is dedicated to all things magic and witchcraft. Here you’ll find a collection of artifacts and books second to none. Controversial? Yes. Dangerous? Let’s just say you no longer have to worry about being burnt at the stake or drowned, but casting spells in public is not recommended.

Museum of Medieval Torture Instruments, Czech Republic

In Prague you’ll find the Museum of Medieval Torture Instruments. There were times throughout Europe’s history where slow and painful deaths were the norm. If you’re interested in seeing some of the devices used to make those deaths happen, this is the museum for you. There are over 5 dozen devices on display. If it makes you feel any better, admission is free!

The Meguro Parasite Museum, Japan
The Meguro Parasite Museum in Tokyo will certainly interest you anyone curious about the ickier side of science. It’s the only museum in the world dedicated to parasites, including tape-worms and other creepy crawlies. On the flipside, the museum explains the parasite/host relationship as it applies to all creatures on earth.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to check out one of these museums if you find yourself nearby. They’re strange, weird, and bizarre, but they each have something unique to offer the world. Enjoy!