Papua New Guinea National Museum

National Museum

The country's premier museum housing extensive collections of indigenous artifacts, traditional masks, weapons, and cultural exhibits spanning Papua New Guinea's diverse ethnic groups. It's essential for understanding the nation's pre-colonial and colonial history.

Things to do

• Explore the Mask and Headdress Collection — View the museum's signature collection of ceremonial masks from the Sepik River region and highlands, showcasing intricate carvings and spiritual significance across PNG's ethnic groups.
• Study Traditional Weapons Displays — Examine historical spears, bows, arrows, and shields used by various PNG tribes, with explanations of their regional variations and combat techniques.
• View the Kundu Drum Exhibit — Discover traditional Papua New Guinean kundu drums and other musical instruments, learning about their role in ceremonies and storytelling.
• Examine Shell and Bone Artifacts — Study intricate jewelry, ornaments, and tools crafted from shells and bones that reflect PNG's maritime and forest-based cultures.
• Learn Pre-Colonial History — Review archaeological exhibits and artifacts documenting PNG's settlement patterns and societies before European contact.
• Attend a Guided Cultural Tour — Join museum staff for detailed explanations of artifacts and their cultural contexts within Papua New Guinea's diverse ethnic landscape.

Food to try

• Sago — A starchy staple made from sago palm, served as a porridge or fried cakes, fundamental to PNG's lowland diet and widely available near the museum.
• Buai (Betel Nut) — A mild stimulant wrapped in betel leaf with lime, chewed socially throughout PNG and commonly offered as a gesture of hospitality.
• Kokoda — Raw fish marinated in citrus juice and coconut milk, a refreshing dish reflecting PNG's Pacific island influences and coastal traditions.
• Sweet Potato (Kaukau) — Boiled or roasted orange and white varieties that are dietary staples in PNG highlands, often served with leafy greens.
• Taro — A starchy root vegetable boiled or roasted, rich in cultural significance and commonly found in Port Moresby markets near the museum.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Sacred Objects — Many masks and artifacts have spiritual significance; avoid touching displays and observe any photography restrictions, as some items are considered tapu (forbidden).
• Greet with Respect — Use formal greetings like 'Gutpela moning' (good morning) and address staff politely; PNG culture values respectful social interaction.
• Understand Tribal Diversity — Papua New Guinea has over 800 languages and distinct tribal groups; the museum's exhibits reflect this extraordinary diversity, so approach with curiosity about regional differences.
• Be Aware of Security — Port Moresby's Central district has safety concerns; visit during daylight hours, avoid displaying valuables, and consider traveling with others or arranged tours.

Nearby

• Freedom Square — 0 km
• Parliament House (National Capital District) — 1 km
• Koki Market (National Capital District) — 1 km
• Port Moresby — 1 km