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Musée d'Aquitaine: A Journey Through Bordeaux and Aquitaine's History

Explore 400,000 years of history in Bordeaux at Musée d'Aquitaine, from prehistoric artifacts to modern-day culture.

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The Musée d'Aquitaine in Bordeaux chronicles the region's history from prehistoric times to the present day. Located in the former Faculty of Letters and Sciences, the museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, offering insights into the archaeology, ethnography, and historical evolution of Bordeaux and Aquitaine.

A brief summary to Musée d'Aquitaine

Local tips

  • Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free admission (except in July and August).
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the extensive collections.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and events.
  • The museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Musée d'Aquitaine is easily accessible via Bordeaux's tram system. Take Tram B to the 'Musée d'Aquitaine' stop, which is directly in front of the museum. Alternatively, Tram A stops at 'Hôtel de Ville', a short walk from the museum. A single tram ticket costs €1.70.

  • Walking

    From the city center (e.g., Place de la Comédie), the Musée d'Aquitaine is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head south on Cours Georges Clemenceau, then continue onto Cours d'Alsace-et-Lorraine. Turn right onto Cours Pasteur; the museum will be on your left. This is a straightforward and pleasant walk through the heart of Bordeaux.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bordeaux. A short taxi ride from the Bordeaux-Saint-Jean train station to the Musée d'Aquitaine will cost approximately €11-15, depending on traffic. Taxi fares in Bordeaux start at €2.60, with a per-kilometer rate of €0.99 during the day and €1.48 at night and on Sundays/holidays. Be aware that extra charges may apply for luggage.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available at several nearby car parks, including Parking Victor Hugo, Parking Pey-Berland, and Parking République. Expect to pay around €2-3 per hour, or €20-25 for a full day. Zenpark and Yespark also offer parking options near the Musée d'Aquitaine.

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Discover more about Musée d'Aquitaine

The Musée d'Aquitaine offers a comprehensive exploration of the history of Bordeaux and the Aquitaine region, from its earliest prehistoric settlements to the modern era. Housed in the former Faculty of Letters and Sciences of the University of Bordeaux, the museum's extensive collection spans archaeology, ethnography, and historical artifacts, providing a rich understanding of the region's cultural evolution. The museum's exhibits are organized chronologically, beginning with the prehistory and protohistory of Aquitaine, showcasing stone tools, bone artifacts, jewelry, and bronze objects that illustrate the development of early civilizations. The Roman era is represented through statues, coins, and everyday objects that reveal Bordeaux's significance as a trading center known as Burdigala. The medieval section covers the period from the Norman invasions to Aquitaine's reunification with France, highlighting the region's political and cultural shifts. Later periods address Bordeaux's role in Atlantic trade and the impact of slavery, alongside the city's cosmopolitan character in the 19th century. The museum also features exhibits dedicated to the 20th and 21st centuries, examining the transformations and future aspirations of Bordeaux and its region. Noteworthy artifacts include a bronze statue of Hercules, discovered in the 19th century, and a cast of the Venus of Laussel, a Paleolithic sculpture. The Musée d'Aquitaine also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural programs, offering diverse perspectives on history and culture. The museum's library provides access to historical archives for further research.

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