Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle de Rouen: A Cabinet of Curiosities

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Explore natural history in a 17th-century convent, home to 800,000 specimens. A journey through science, history, and culture in Rouen, France.

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Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum of Rouen, founded in 1828, is one of France's largest natural history museums outside of Paris, housing over 800,000 objects and species from around the world. Located in a former 17th-century convent, the museum offers a journey through the natural sciences, with collections ranging from zoology and botany to ethnography and geology.

A brief summary to Natural History Museum

198 Rue Beauvoisine, Rouen, 76000, FR
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Tuesday 2 pm-5:30 pm
Wednesday 1:30 pm-5:30 pm
Thursday 1:30 pm-5:30 pm
Friday 1:30 pm-5:30 pm
Saturday 2 pm-5:30 pm
Sunday 2 pm-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Natural History Museum.

Visit on a Sunday afternoon to experience the museum during its liveliest hours.
Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events.
Take advantage of the free admission to explore the museum's extensive collections.
Consider attending one of the Saturday workshops for children to explore different continents through scientific activities.

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Getting There

Public Transport

The Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle de Rouen is easily accessible via Rouen's public transportation network. The closest Métro stop is Beauvoisine, which is served by the T1, T2 and T3 lines. Several bus lines, including the F1 Fast Line and bus numbers 6, 7, 20, and 22, also stop at Beauvoisine. A single ticket for the Métro or bus costs around €2.
Walking

The museum is located at 198 Rue Beauvoisine, within walking distance of many central Rouen landmarks. From the Rouen-Rive-Droite train station, head southeast on Rue Jeanne d'Arc, then turn left onto Rue Thiers, followed by a right onto Rue Beauvoisine. The museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 1.5 km and should take about 20 minutes.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Rouen. A taxi ride from the Rouen-Rive-Droite train station to the museum typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Natural History Museum

Step back in time at the Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle de Rouen, a treasure trove of scientific and historical artifacts housed in a magnificent 17th-century convent. Founded in 1828, the museum began as a 'cabinet of natural history,' intended for higher education in zoology, botany, and pharmacy. It quickly evolved into a major center for the natural sciences, becoming one of the most important museums of its kind in France. The museum's collection has grown to include over 800,000 objects, with a wide array of specimens from all corners of the globe. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits showcasing stuffed animals from various continents, impressive ethnographic collections, and an array of shells. Highlights include the Asian section of the Gallery of Continents, a result of collaboration with Indonesian artists, and the diorama of Australia, featuring specimens brought back in the early 20th century. The Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle de Rouen is more than just a collection of specimens; it's a place where visitors can engage with contemporary scientific and cultural issues. The museum aims to promote discussion and reflection on topics such as sustainable development, biodiversity, global warming, and bioethics. The museum has also received the Mom'Art award for its welcoming environment for young visitors, offering temporary exhibitions, events, and scientific workshops for all ages.