The Mineralogical Museum at Ivan Franko National University of Lviv was founded in 1852-53 by Professor of Natural History Hyacinth Lobazhevsky. Since then, it has been operating continuously, expanding its collections and welcoming visitors. In 1999, it was named after Academician Yevgeny Lazarenko.
The Mineralogical Museum's collections include over 14,000 mineral specimens from all continents of the world (even Antarctica!). In addition to classic mineralogical collections from general, systematic, genetic, and regional mineralogy, the museum has several thematic exhibitions: a collection of pseudomorphs of minerals and fossilized remains of plants and animals; a collection of meteorites and tektites; a collection of giant minerals; a collection of gems and jewelry stones (malachite, lapis lazuli, fluorite, turquoise, polychrome tourmalines, amber, garnets, corals, etc.).
The Mineralogical Museum serves as a base for the educational process and scientific research conducted by students and employees of higher educational institutions in Lviv. The museum's goal is to popularize geological and mineralogical knowledge among various segments of the population. Regular visitors include school, gymnasium, and college students; participants in scientific conferences; foreign delegations; collectors; and enthusiasts of minerals and mineralogy. The Mineralogical Museum organizes themed tours, master classes, lectures, and consultations for visitors.
