National Museum of Prehistory (Taiwan)

The National Museum of Prehistory (NMP; ) is located in Taitung City, Taitung County, Taiwan.

History
In 1980, during the construction of the South-Link Line, building work uncovered prehistoric remains on the Beinan Site (卑南遺址). Many slate coffins and artifacts were discovered, and after a proposal by the Taitung City Government, construction of Taitung Station was halted. For 10 years, a National Taiwan University-led team excavated the 10000 m2 site and uncovered over 1,500 burials and tens of thousands of artifacts. The site is widely regarded as the most important site of the mid-Neolithic age in Taiwan, and was then later transformed into the Beinan Cultural Park.

An outdoor museum was proposed and approved in 1990. Trial operations began on July 10, 2001, and the museum officially opened on August 17, 2002.

The museum underwent renovation starting on 31 May 2020.

Architecture
The museum was designed by American architect Michael Graves and is situated on a 10 ha parcel of land.

The museum is divided into several sections, including:
 * Sun Square
 * Mountain Square
 * Administrative Building
 * Scenic Garden
 * Children's Play Area
 * The Maze
 * Water Fountain Show
 * Bird Singing Square
 * Sightseeing Hill.

Exhibitions

 * Natural History of Taiwan designed by MET Studio, London
 * Prehistory of Taiwan
 * Indigenous Peoples of Taiwan designed by MET Studio, London

Transportation
The museum is accessible within walking distance from Kangle Station of the Taiwan Railways.

Branches

 * Museum of Archaeology in Tainan