Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen
- History of the museum
- Location of the museum
- The museum's collections
- A Museum with a Rich Historical Past
- A Museum Dedicated to Natural History
- A Museum for All Audiences
- Permanent Exhibitions
- Themed Exhibitions
- Guided Tours
- Educational Workshops
- Conferences, Lectures and Seminars
- Library and Documentation Center
- Museum Shop and Bookstore
- Planning Your Visit
- The Museum's Opening Hours
- Nearby Attractions
- Insider Tip
History of the museum
Location of the museum
The museum's collections
The Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen is a natural history museum located in Rouen, Normandy, France. It was founded in 1828 by the Société des Amis des Sciences Naturelles de Rouen, a group of naturalists and enthusiasts who wanted to create a place to showcase the region's natural heritage. The museum's first collections were made up of specimens donated by members of the society, as well as objects collected during scientific expeditions. Over the years, the museum's collections have grown significantly, and it now houses a wide variety of exhibits, including fossils, minerals, plants, and animals from all over the world.
The Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen is located in the Jardin des Plantes, a botanical garden that is also home to the Rouen Botanical Garden. The museum is situated in a beautiful 19th-century building that was once used as a convent. The building has been carefully restored and now provides a modern and welcoming space for visitors to explore the museum's collections.
The museum's collections are divided into several sections, including the following:
- Zoology: This section contains exhibits on a wide variety of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, and invertebrates.
- Botany: This section contains exhibits on the diversity of plant life, including flowers, trees, shrubs, and ferns.
- Geology: This section contains exhibits on the Earth's geological history and the different types of rocks and minerals that make up the planet.
- Paleontology: This section contains exhibits on the history of life on Earth, including fossils of dinosaurs, mammoths, and other extinct animals.
A Museum with a Rich Historical Past
The Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen has a long and rich history. It was founded in 1828 by the Société des Amis des Sciences Naturelles de Rouen, a group of local naturalists. The museum's first collections were donated by members of the society, and they quickly grew to include specimens from all over the world. In 1831, the museum moved to its current location in the Jardin des Plantes, where it has remained ever since.
Over the years, the museum has continued to grow and develop. In the late 19th century, a new wing was added to the museum to house its growing collection of zoological specimens. In the early 20th century, the museum's botanical collection was expanded with the addition of a new greenhouse. In recent years, the museum has undergone a major renovation, which has resulted in the creation of new exhibition spaces and the improvement of its accessibility.
Today, the Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen is one of the largest and most important natural history museums in France. It is home to a vast collection of specimens from all over the world, and it is a popular destination for both tourists and researchers.
A Museum Dedicated to Natural History
The Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen is a natural history museum dedicated to the study and preservation of the natural world. Its mission is to promote understanding and appreciation of the diversity of life on Earth, and to inspire people to take action to protect it.
The museum's collections include over 2 million specimens from all over the world, including plants, animals, fossils, and minerals. These collections are used for research, education, and public outreach. The museum also conducts research on a variety of topics, including biodiversity, evolution, and conservation.
The museum's research activities are supported by a team of scientists and curators who are experts in their fields. The museum also collaborates with other institutions around the world to conduct research and share knowledge. The results of the museum's research are published in scientific journals and presented at conferences.
A Museum for All Audiences
The Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen is not only a place for scientific research and education, but also a place where visitors of all ages can learn about and enjoy the natural world. The museum offers a variety of exhibitions, educational programs, and activities that are designed to appeal to a wide range of interests.
The museum's exhibitions are designed to be both informative and engaging. They feature a variety of interactive displays, dioramas, and specimens that allow visitors to learn about the natural world in a fun and interactive way. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults, including guided tours, workshops, and lectures. These programs are designed to help visitors learn more about the museum's collections and the natural world.
The Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen is also committed to accessibility. The museum is wheelchair accessible and offers a variety of services for visitors with disabilities, including sign language interpretation and audio description. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and activities for visitors with disabilities.
In short, the Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen is a place where visitors of all ages can learn about and enjoy the natural world. The museum's exhibitions, educational programs, and activities are designed to appeal to a wide range of interests, and the museum is committed to accessibility.
Permanent Exhibitions
The Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen houses a diverse array of permanent exhibitions that showcase the wonders of the natural world. These exhibitions cover a wide range of topics, from the origins of life on Earth to the evolution of species. Visitors can explore the mysteries of the deep sea, marvel at the beauty of tropical rainforests, and come face-to-face with some of the most awe-inspiring creatures that have ever walked the Earth.
The museum's most popular permanent exhibition is the "Treasures of the Earth," which features a stunning collection of minerals, fossils, and gemstones. Visitors can admire the shimmering beauty of diamonds, the intricate structure of snowflakes, and the fossilized remains of ancient creatures. The exhibition also provides an in-depth look at the geological processes that have shaped our planet over billions of years.
Another highlight of the museum is the "Biodiversity Gallery," which showcases the incredible diversity of life on Earth. Visitors can learn about the different types of ecosystems that exist on our planet and the amazing array of plants and animals that inhabit them. The gallery also features a number of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience the natural world in a hands-on way.
For those interested in the history of life on Earth, the "Evolution Gallery" is a must-see. This exhibition traces the origins of life from the first single-celled organisms to the emergence of humans. Visitors can learn about the major milestones in the history of evolution and see how different species have adapted to changing environments over time.
In addition to these permanent exhibitions, the Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions often focus on specific topics or regions of the world and offer visitors a chance to learn about new and exciting aspects of the natural world.
Themed Exhibitions
In addition to its permanent exhibitions, the Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen also hosts a variety of themed exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions focus on specific topics related to natural history, such as the evolution of life, the diversity of species, or the impact of climate change on the environment.
The museum's themed exhibitions are typically organized by guest curators, who are experts in their respective fields. This ensures that the exhibitions are of the highest quality and that they offer visitors a unique and informative experience.
Past themed exhibitions at the Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen have included:
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"The Age of Dinosaurs" (2019): This exhibition featured a collection of dinosaur fossils from around the world, including a Triceratops skull, a Stegosaurus skeleton, and a Tyrannosaurus rex tooth.
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"The Wonders of the Ocean" (2020): This exhibition showcased the incredible diversity of life in the oceans, from microscopic plankton to giant whales.
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"Climate Change: The Facts" (2021): This exhibition explored the science of climate change and its impact on the planet.
The Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen's themed exhibitions are a great way to learn more about the natural world and the challenges it faces. They are also a great opportunity to see some of the museum's most unique and interesting specimens.
Guided Tours
The Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen offers guided tours in French for groups of all sizes and ages. Guided tours are available for the museum's permanent and temporary exhibitions. Guided tours for the permanent exhibitions last for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, while guided tours for the temporary exhibitions last for about 1 hour.
A guided tour is an excellent way to learn about the museum's collections and history and learn more about the natural world. Guided tours are led by knowledgeable and experienced museum educators who are passionate about sharing their knowledge about natural history.
Different Types of Guided Tours The Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen offers different types of guided tours for different audiences. There are guided tours for adults, children, and families. There are also guided tours for school groups and groups with special needs.
Cost of Guided Tours The cost of a guided tour varies depending on the size of the group and the type of tour. For example, a guided tour for a group of adults costs 60 euros, while a guided tour for a group of children costs 40 euros.
Educational Workshops
The Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen offers a diverse range of educational workshops tailored for visitors of all ages, making it an ideal destination for families, school groups, and individuals seeking an interactive and engaging learning experience. These workshops provide a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the fascinating world of natural history and explore various scientific concepts in a hands-on, interactive environment.
The museum's educational team has meticulously designed these workshops to cater to different interests and learning styles. Participants can choose from a variety of topics, including biodiversity, geology, ecology, and evolution, among others. Each workshop is carefully structured to combine theoretical knowledge with practical activities, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable learning experience.
Under the guidance of experienced educators, participants engage in interactive activities, experiments, and discussions, fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world. They have the chance to handle specimens, conduct scientific investigations, and participate in group projects, promoting teamwork and critical thinking skills.
The educational workshops are available for both children and adults. School groups can book dedicated sessions tailored to their specific curriculum requirements, while families and individuals can join public workshops scheduled throughout the year. The museum also offers customized workshops for special events, such as birthdays, corporate team-building activities, or private groups.
To participate in the educational workshops, visitors are advised to book in advance to secure their spot. The cost of workshops varies depending on the duration, group size, and materials used. The museum's website provides detailed information on the available workshops, schedules, and booking procedures.
Conferences, Lectures and Seminars
The Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen regularly hosts conferences, lectures, and seminars on a variety of topics related to natural history. These events are typically free and open to the public, and they provide an excellent opportunity to learn more about the museum's research and collections.
Conferences
The museum hosts several conferences each year, which typically focus on a specific topic or theme. These conferences bring together experts from around the world to share their research and findings. Past conferences have covered topics such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, and the evolution of life.
Lectures
The museum also hosts a series of lectures throughout the year, which are typically given by museum staff or visiting researchers. These lectures cover a wide range of topics, from the latest discoveries in natural history to the history of the museum itself.
Seminars
In addition to conferences and lectures, the museum also offers a variety of seminars, which are typically more focused and in-depth than lectures. These seminars are typically led by museum staff or visiting researchers, and they provide an opportunity for participants to learn more about specific topics in natural history.
Cost
Admission to conferences, lectures, and seminars at the Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen is typically free. However, some events may require registration or a small fee.
Library and Documentation Center
The Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen has a well-equipped library and documentation center that houses a vast collection of books, journals, and other resources related to natural history. The library's collection includes over 10,000 volumes, including many rare and out-of-print books. The documentation center houses a collection of over 50,000 documents, including photographs, maps, and manuscripts.
The library and documentation center are open to the public, and researchers are welcome to use the collections. The staff is available to assist researchers with their research needs. The library and documentation center are an invaluable resource for anyone interested in natural history.
Highlights of the Collection
- A collection of over 10,000 volumes, including many rare and out-of-print books
- A collection of over 50,000 documents, including photographs, maps, and manuscripts
- A collection of over 1,000 scientific journals
- A collection of over 100,000 specimens, including plants, animals, and fossils
Access to the Library and Documentation Center
The library and documentation center are open to the public from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Researchers are welcome to use the collections, but they must first register with the library staff. The library and documentation center are located on the second floor of the museum.
Museum Shop and Bookstore
The Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen has a well-stocked shop and bookstore where visitors can purchase a variety of souvenirs, books, and educational materials. The shop sells a wide range of items, including fossils, minerals, stuffed animals, toys, postcards, and books on natural history. The shop also sells a selection of gifts and souvenirs, such as t-shirts, mugs, and hats. The bookstore sells a wide range of books on natural history, including field guides, reference books, and children's books. The shop and bookstore are located in the museum's lobby and are open during the same hours as the museum.
The prices of the items in the shop and bookstore are reasonable. Most items are priced between €5 and €20. The shop and bookstore also offer a variety of discounts, such as a 10% discount for students and seniors. The shop and bookstore are a great place to pick up a souvenir or gift for a friend or family member. They are also a great place to learn more about natural history.
Planning Your Visit
The Museum's Opening Hours
Nearby Attractions
The Musée d'histoire naturelle de Rouen is surrounded by a wealth of cultural and historical attractions that are sure to appeal to visitors of all ages. Just a short walk from the museum, you can find the Rouen Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture and one of the largest cathedrals in France. The cathedral is home to numerous works of art, including the tomb of Richard I of England, and offers guided tours that provide a fascinating insight into its history and construction.
Another nearby attraction is the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen, which houses a collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings from the Middle Ages to the present day. The museum is particularly renowned for its collection of Impressionist paintings, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Pissarro.
For those interested in history, the Historial Jeanne d'Arc is a must-see. This museum tells the story of Joan of Arc, the young woman who led the French army to victory against the English in the Hundred Years' War. The museum features interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and guided tours that bring Joan of Arc's life and times to life.
If you are looking for a more relaxed experience, you can take a stroll along the banks of the Seine River. The riverfront is lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and shops, and offers stunning views of the city. You can also take a boat trip down the river, which provides a unique perspective on Rouen and its surroundings.
Insider Tip
- Visit the museum on a weekday: The museum is generally less crowded on weekdays than on weekends, so you'll be able to enjoy a more peaceful visit.
- Take advantage of free admission: The museum offers free admission to all visitors on the first Sunday of every month.
- Avoid the crowds: If you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit the museum during the off-season (November to March) or early in the morning.
