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Musée d'Aquitaine: A Journey Through Time

Explore 400,000 years of history at Musée d'Aquitaine in Bordeaux, from prehistoric times to the 21st century, through extensive collections of regional archaeology, ethnography, and historical artifacts.

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The Musée d'Aquitaine in Bordeaux invites visitors on a captivating journey through the region's rich history, from prehistoric times to the present day. Housed in a former university building, the museum boasts an extensive collection of over 1.3 million artifacts, including archaeological finds, ethnographic objects, and historical documents. Explore exhibits dedicated to Bordeaux's Roman past, the medieval Duchy of Aquitaine, the city's role in the Atlantic slave trade, and its development as a major port. With its diverse and engaging displays, the Musée d'Aquitaine offers a comprehensive and insightful look into the history and culture of Bordeaux and its surrounding region. The museum is currently closed for renovations until Spring 2025, but is definitely worth a visit upon its reopening.

A brief summary to Musée d'Aquitaine

  • Tuesday 11 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-6 pm
  • Friday 11 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on the first Sunday of the month (except in July and August) for free admission to the permanent collections.
  • Download the Musée d'Aquitaine app for audio-guided tours in multiple languages, offering insights into the exhibits.
  • Check the museum's website for information on temporary exhibitions and special events, which often complement the permanent collection.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Musée d'Aquitaine is easily accessible by tram. Take Tram Line B and get off at the 'Musée d'Aquitaine' stop, which is directly in front of the museum. A single tram fare is approximately €1.70.

  • Walking

    From Place Pey-Berland, where the Bordeaux Cathedral is located, the Musée d'Aquitaine is a short walk south along Cours Pasteur. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Cours Pasteur. Several parking garages are located within a short walking distance of the museum, including Parking République (450m away), Parking Victor Hugo and Parking Pey-Berland. Parking fees typically range from €0.80 per 15 minutes for the first 3 hours, then €0.60 per 15 minutes after that, with daily maximums around €24.

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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 21st century. Located at 20 Cours Pasteur, the museum is housed in a building with a rich history of its own, having previously served as the Faculty of Arts and Humanities for the University of Bordeaux. The museum's story began in 1963 with the merging of several public collections, eventually taking the name Musée d'Aquitaine. In January 1987, it found its permanent home in the former university building, providing ample space to showcase its vast and diverse collections. Visitors are welcomed by sculptures of famous figures on the building's pediment, hinting at the historical treasures within. One of the museum's highlights is the tomb of Michel de Montaigne, the renowned author and philosopher, a key attraction in the section dedicated to 16th-century Bordeaux. Montaigne's presence underscores the region's intellectual and cultural heritage. The museum's permanent collection, titled "400,000 years of history(s)," guides visitors through a chronological journey, beginning with prehistoric artifacts and progressing through the Gallo-Roman era, the Middle Ages, and the modern period. Highlights include a bronze statue of Hercules discovered beneath Place Saint-Pierre, offering a glimpse into Bordeaux's Roman past. The museum also sheds light on France's reconquest of the region, showcasing objects from that era. Significant attention is given to Bordeaux's role in the Atlantic slave trade during the 18th century. Exhibits explore the economic and social impact of this trade, presenting a nuanced and critical perspective on this dark chapter in the city's history. The museum also examines Bordeaux's development as a major port, displaying tools and artifacts brought back from countries formerly under French rule, highlighting the city's role as a crossroads of exchange. The Musée d'Aquitaine 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. These additions further enrich the museum's holdings, providing visitors with a more comprehensive understanding of the region's past. The museum is committed to making its collections accessible to all visitors. It offers audio-guided tours in multiple languages, and its facilities are designed to accommodate people with reduced mobility. The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions and educational programs throughout the year, ensuring that there is always something new to discover. Currently closed for renovations until Spring 2025, the Musée d'Aquitaine is undergoing improvements to enhance accessibility and visitor comfort. Upon its reopening, visitors can look forward to an even more engaging and informative experience. The museum's reopening exhibition, "Le monde d'après, 1944-1954. Des lendemains qui chantent?" explores the post-war years in Bordeaux and Aquitaine, offering a glimpse into the challenges and hopes of a region rebuilding after conflict. The Musée d'Aquitaine is more than just a repository of historical artifacts; it is a dynamic cultural institution that brings the past to life. Through its diverse collections, engaging exhibitions, and commitment to accessibility, the museum offers a valuable and enriching experience for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student, or simply curious about the region's past, the Musée d'Aquitaine is a must-see destination in Bordeaux.

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