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Musée Savoisien: A Journey Through Savoyard History

Explore the captivating history and culture of the Savoie region at the Musée Savoisien, housed in a stunning 13th-century Franciscan convent in Chambéry.

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The Musée Savoisien, nestled in a beautifully renovated 13th-century Franciscan convent in Chambéry, offers a captivating exploration of the Savoie region's rich history and culture. Reopened in April 2023 after extensive renovations, the museum showcases over 2,000 artifacts, from Paleolithic tools to contemporary objects, spread across six thematic sections. Interactive exhibits, including multimedia displays and games, engage visitors of all ages, while the stunning cloister provides breathtaking views of the Savoyard heritage. Don't miss the temporary exhibitions that highlight specific aspects of Savoyard life and art. The museum provides a unique opportunity to delve into the past and understand the evolution of this fascinating region, making it a must-see for anyone interested in history, culture, and the beauty of the French Alps.

A brief summary to Musée Savoisien

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events to enhance your visit.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's extensive collections and interactive exhibits.
  • Take advantage of the audio guides available in multiple languages to gain a deeper understanding of the exhibits.
  • Visit the museum on a weekday to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Combine your museum visit with a stroll through Chambéry's historic center and a visit to other local attractions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Fontaine des Éléphants, a major landmark in Chambéry, walk north along Rue de Boigne. Turn left onto Place Saint-Léger, then continue onto Rue Métropole. The Musée Savoisien will be on your left in Place Métropole, a short 5-minute walk. The route is mostly flat and pedestrian-friendly.

  • Public Transport

    The Synchro Bus network serves Chambéry. Several bus lines stop near the Musée Savoisien. Check the Synchro Bus website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. A single ticket costs approximately €1.50. From the bus stop, follow signs to Place Métropole; the museum is a short walk away.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Chambéry. A short ride from the train station or another central location to the Musée Savoisien will typically cost between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and the time of day. Specify 'Musée Savoisien, Place Métropole' as your destination.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that parking in the immediate vicinity of Place Métropole is limited. Several paid parking garages are available within a 5-10 minute walk, including Parking Gare Chambéry and Q-Park Hôpital Chambéry. Expect to pay around €2-3 per hour for parking. From the parking garage, follow signs to Place Métropole and the Musée Savoisien.

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Discover more about Musée Savoisien

The Musée Savoisien, located in the heart of Chambéry, is a treasure trove of Savoyard history and culture. Housed within a former Franciscan convent dating back to the 13th century, the museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the region's fascinating past. The building itself is a historical monument, having undergone extensive renovations and reopened to the public in April 2023, after being closed for eight years. The museum's collections span from the Paleolithic era to the present day, encompassing a wide range of artifacts, including archaeological finds, ethnographic objects, paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, archives, films, and sound recordings. These items are thoughtfully arranged into six thematic sections, each offering a different perspective on the history and culture of Savoie. One of the highlights of the Musée Savoisien is its interactive exhibits. Multimedia displays, games, and touchable objects engage visitors of all ages, making the learning experience both fun and informative. Families with children will particularly appreciate the museum's focus on interactive learning, with features like a 3D reconstitution of the site allowing visitors to explore it from different eras and a virtual fitting room where visitors can use augmented reality to try on different traditional garments from the region. The museum's setting within a former Franciscan convent adds to its unique charm. The cloister, with its breathtaking views of the Savoyard heritage, is a particularly stunning feature. The architecture of the building itself is a testament to the region's rich history, with elements of both medieval and contemporary design. The Musée Savoisien also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, focusing on specific aspects of Savoyard life and art. These exhibitions provide an opportunity to delve deeper into the region's culture and discover new and interesting facets of its history. One recent exhibition, "De l'or au bout des doigts", showcased original works of art from the Middle Ages, originating from Savoie, Haute-Savoie, Italy, and Switzerland. The exhibition highlighted the work of painters, sculptors, goldsmiths, master glassmakers, and carpenters, showcasing their versatile skills and fascinating know-how. The museum's commitment to accessibility is also noteworthy. The building is fully accessible to visitors with disabilities, with features like elevators and accessible restrooms. The museum also offers resources for visitors with hearing, mental, and visual disabilities. Visiting the Musée Savoisien is more than just a trip to a museum; it's an immersive experience that allows you to connect with the history and culture of the Savoie region. Whether you're interested in archaeology, ethnography, art, or simply want to learn more about this fascinating part of France, the Musée Savoisien is sure to captivate and inspire. After your visit, take some time to explore the charming city of Chambéry. Stroll through the medieval quarter, admire the Fountain of Elephants, and visit the Château des Ducs de Savoie. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Chambéry is the perfect complement to a visit to the Musée Savoisien.

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