The National Museum of Natural History originates from the royal garden of medicinal plants created by King Louis XIII in 1635. Having initially a purely medical function, the garden became in 1718 the King's garden and focused on natural history, instructing public, putting together collections and conducting scientific research. During the French Revolution the museum expanded its collection and continued to flourish during the 19th century.

Today, the Museum of Natural History aims to both research and public diffusion of knowledge. In Paris, three departments are dedicated to the public knowledge: the Galleries of the Jardin des Plantes, Botanical Parks and Zoos, and The Museum of Man (Musée de l'Homme).