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Musée d'Aquitaine: A Journey Through Time

Explore over 400,000 years of history at Musée d'Aquitaine, from prehistoric artifacts to Bordeaux's role in global trade, in one of France's largest regional history museums.

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The Musée d'Aquitaine in Bordeaux invites visitors on a captivating journey through the history of Bordeaux and the Aquitaine region, from prehistoric times to the 21st century. Housed in the former Faculty of Letters and Sciences, the museum boasts an extensive collection of over 700,000 artifacts, including archaeological finds, historical documents, and ethnographic objects. Explore the region's rich past, from its Roman origins and medieval development to its role in the Atlantic trade and the impact of slavery. With engaging exhibits and a diverse range of artifacts, the Musée d'Aquitaine offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural heritage of Bordeaux and its surrounding area. The museum also features temporary exhibitions that explore various themes related to history and culture, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for every visitor. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the captivating stories and treasures that await within this remarkable institution.

A brief summary to Musée d'Aquitaine

Local tips

  • Visit on the first Sunday of the month (except July and August) for free admission to the permanent collections.
  • Download the Musée d'Aquitaine app for audio-guided tours in French and other languages, offering insights into key exhibits.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll to nearby Place Pey-Berland and the Cathédrale Saint André, both within easy walking distance.
  • 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.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Gare Saint-Jean, Bordeaux's main train station, take tram line C towards 'Parc des Expositions' or 'Blanquefort'. Alight at 'Porte de Bourgogne' and then change to Tram Line B towards 'Berges de la Garonne' and get off at the Musée d'Aquitaine stop. The museum is directly in front of the tram stop. A single tram ticket costs €1.70.

  • Walking

    From Place de la Comédie, walk south along Cours Georges Clemenceau, then turn left onto Cours d'Albret. Continue straight until you reach Cours Pasteur. The Musée d'Aquitaine will be on your right. The walk is approximately 15 minutes and offers views of the city center.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Gare Saint-Jean to the Musée d'Aquitaine typically costs between €12-€18, depending on traffic. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off at 20 Cours Pasteur.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Cours Pasteur in central Bordeaux. Several parking garages are located nearby, including Parking Victor Hugo, Parking Pey-Berland, and Parking République. Parking rates typically range from €2.40 to €3.20 per hour. From Parking Republique, it is a 450m walk to the Musée d'Aquitaine.

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Discover more about Musée d'Aquitaine

The Musée d'Aquitaine stands as one of France's largest regional history museums outside of Paris, offering an immersive exploration of Bordeaux and the Aquitaine region from prehistoric times to the present day. Situated at 20 Cours Pasteur, in the building that once housed Bordeaux's Faculty of Arts and Humanities, the museum's location itself is steeped in history, adding another layer of intrigue to the visitor experience. Stepping inside, visitors embark on a chronological journey through time, encountering a vast collection of over 700,000 artifacts that illuminate the region's multifaceted past. The museum's exhibits are thoughtfully organized across two floors, each dedicated to specific periods and themes. The ground floor showcases the region's ancient roots, with artifacts from Prehistory, Protohistory, the Roman Empire, the Middle Ages, and the Modern Era. Marvel at the remnants of early human settlements, intricate Roman mosaics, and medieval weaponry, gaining insights into the lives of those who shaped the region's destiny. Ascending to the first floor, visitors delve into more recent chapters of Aquitaine's history, with exhibits focusing on the 18th century, including Bordeaux's role in the Atlantic trade and the legacy of slavery. Explore world cultures, and the 19th and 20th centuries, including Bordeaux's significance as a port city. The museum doesn't shy away from difficult topics, offering a nuanced and critical examination of Bordeaux's involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. Through historical documents, personal accounts, and poignant artifacts, visitors confront the harsh realities of this dark chapter in the region's history. Beyond its permanent collections, the Musée d'Aquitaine hosts temporary exhibitions that explore diverse themes related to history, archaeology, and ethnography. These exhibitions provide fresh perspectives on the region's past and its connections to the wider world, ensuring that there is always something new to discover. The museum also offers a range of educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages, including guided tours, workshops, and lectures. Families with children can take advantage of the museum's interactive exhibits and engaging programs designed to spark curiosity and foster a love of history. The Musée d'Aquitaine is more than just a repository of artifacts; it is a dynamic cultural institution that brings the past to life. Through its compelling exhibits, educational programs, and commitment to historical accuracy, the museum invites visitors to connect with the stories of those who came before and to reflect on the enduring legacy of Bordeaux and the Aquitaine region. The museum also houses the collections of the Centre National Jean Moulin, dedicated to the history of the Second World War, and the Goupil collection of graphic arts, further enriching its offerings. Visiting the Musée d'Aquitaine is an enriching experience that provides a deeper understanding of Bordeaux and its place in the world. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply curious about the region's past, the Musée d'Aquitaine offers a captivating journey through time that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the rich heritage of this remarkable corner of France. The museum is easily accessible by tram, with the 'Musée d'Aquitaine' stop on Line B located directly in front of the entrance. Several parking garages are also located nearby, including Parking Victor Hugo, Parking Pey-Berland, and Parking République.

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