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Robert-Houdin House of Magic: A Whimsical Journey into Illusion

Discover the enchanting world of illusion at the Robert-Houdin House of Magic in Blois, where history, heritage, and spellbinding entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.

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Step into the enchanting world of the Robert-Houdin House of Magic in Blois, a museum dedicated to the art of illusion and the life of Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin, the father of modern magic. Located opposite the Royal Château of Blois, this unique museum is housed in a grand 19th-century building that comes alive with a mesmerizing dragon show every half hour. Explore five floors filled with automatons, optical illusions, and exhibits showcasing the history of magic. With live magic shows and interactive displays, the House of Magic offers a captivating experience for visitors of all ages. It's a place where history, heritage, and family entertainment blend seamlessly, promising a visit full of surprises and wonder. Don't miss the chance to discover the secrets of illusion and pay homage to a true master of magic in this extraordinary museum.

A brief summary to Robert-Houdin House of Magic

  • Monday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Time your visit to coincide with the dragon show on the building's facade, which occurs every half hour and is a spectacle in itself.
  • Check the museum's schedule for live magic shows, which offer a chance to see illusions performed up close.
  • Consider purchasing a combined ticket with the Royal Château of Blois for a discounted rate and a full day of exploration.
  • If traveling by train, the House of Magic is a short walk or bus ride from the Blois-Chambord train station.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's five floors of exhibits and enjoy a magic show.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Royal Château of Blois, the Robert-Houdin House of Magic is directly opposite, a very short walk across Place du Château. The museum's distinctive facade, featuring the dragon heads, is easily recognizable. No costs are associated with this final approach.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving at Blois-Chambord train station, take a bus from the Gare SNCF bus stop directly outside the station towards the city center. Several bus lines serve this route, including lines A, B, C, D and F. Get off at the 'Château' stop, which is right next to the Royal Château. The House of Magic is directly opposite the Château. The bus fare is approximately €3. Alternatively, from the train station, it is a 10-15 minute walk to the House of Magic.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Blois-Chambord train station, a taxi or ride-share to the Robert-Houdin House of Magic takes approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost is estimated to be between €6-€8. The driver should take you to Place du Château, where the House of Magic is located directly across from the Royal Château.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Place du Château in Blois. There is limited paid parking available in the immediate vicinity, with hourly rates around €1. Alternatively, there are several parking areas within a 10-15 minute walk, including free options further from the Château. Be aware that parking near the Château can be busy, especially during peak season.

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Discover more about Robert-Houdin House of Magic

The Robert-Houdin House of Magic, or Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin, stands proudly in Blois, France, directly across from the magnificent Royal Château. This unique museum, the only one of its kind in Europe, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the art of magic, illusion, and the legacy of Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin, a celebrated magician, clockmaker, and inventor born in Blois in 1805. The museum's story began in the 1960s when Paul Robert-Houdin, the grandson of the famed magician, established a private museum in Blois. This collection, largely biographical and featuring personal items, was donated to the city in 1981. The city then enriched the collection, acquiring a mysterious clock and an automaton, and displayed it at the Royal Castle of Blois from 1985 to 1991. In 1990, the city purchased Maison Massé, a grand 19th-century house, to house the growing collection, and the Robert-Houdin House of Magic officially opened its doors on June 1, 1998. One of the most striking features of the House of Magic is its exterior. Every half hour, six golden dragon heads emerge from the building's windows, accompanied by smoke, lights, and eerie sounds. This spectacle, created by artists Michel and Jean-Pierre Hartmann, pays homage to Robert-Houdin's inventive spirit and theatrical flair. The dragon display is visible from the Place du Château and offers a taste of the magic within. Inside, the museum spans over 2,000 square meters across five levels, each offering a unique perspective on the world of magic. Visitors can explore exhibits dedicated to the history of magic, the life and work of Robert-Houdin, and various aspects of illusionism. The museum's collection includes automatons, optical illusions, posters, and magical artifacts from the 19th and 20th centuries. Highlights of the museum include: * **The Rotunda:** Showcasing the history of magic, art, and music. * **The Greek Temple:** Honoring jugglers of the Middle Ages, physicist Pinetti, and inventor Buatier De Kolta. * **The Hall of Illusions:** Featuring inverted, infinite, and false perspectives. * **Robert-Houdin's Workshop:** A recreation of the magician's watchmaking workshop, complete with scientific instruments and magical props. * **The Hallucinoscope:** An interactive exhibit that challenges visitors' perceptions. The House of Magic also hosts live magic shows in its 345-seat theater, offering visitors the chance to witness the art of illusion firsthand. These shows, which vary throughout the year, feature talented magicians performing a range of tricks and illusions. The museum is not only a place of entertainment but also a center for education and research. It hosts workshops for children and families, lectures on Robert-Houdin, and events for magic clubs. The House of Magic is labeled a Musée de France, recognizing its importance to the country's cultural heritage. Visiting the Robert-Houdin House of Magic is an immersive experience that combines history, art, and entertainment. It's a place where visitors can learn about the origins of modern magic, marvel at the ingenuity of Robert-Houdin, and be amazed by the power of illusion. Whether you're a seasoned magic enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, the House of Magic is sure to captivate and delight. The museum is open during specific periods throughout the year, including April to August, weekends in September, All Saints' Day holidays, and Christmas holidays. It's recommended to check the museum's website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and admission prices. A visit to the Robert-Houdin House of Magic is a journey into a world of wonder, where the impossible becomes possible and the imagination takes flight. It's a testament to the enduring power of magic and the genius of Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin, the man who transformed magic into an art form.

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