The Musée d'Aquitaine Bordeaux

A Journey Through 400,000 Years of History

The museum’s permanent collections retrace 400,000 years of history, highlighting the cultural, social, and economic evolution of the region. Visitors can admire prehistoric artefacts, Gallo-Roman remains, medieval objects, as well as testimonies from the modern and contemporary eras.


The collections are arranged in a series of chronological and thematic sections:

Prehistory and Protohistory – This section presents artefacts dating back 400,000 years, offering a glimpse into the earliest human occupations in the region.

Bordeaux and Aquitaine in the Gallo-Roman Era – The remains of Burdigala, the ancient name for Bordeaux, bear witness to the city’s importance during the Roman Empire.

Aquitaine under the Kings of England and the Return to French Guyenne – This period covers the Middle Ages, marked by English rule and the region’s subsequent return to the French crown.

From Montaigne to the Sun King – Inaugurated in March 2024, this space explores the 16ᵗʰ and 17ᵗʰ centuries, showcasing emblematic figures such as the philosopher Michel de Montaigne.

Bordeaux in the 18ᵗʰ Century, Atlantic Trade and Slavery – This section addresses Bordeaux’s role in the triangular trade and the slave trade, offering a reflection on this dark chapter of history.

Bordeaux, Gateway to the World: 1800–1939 – It illustrates the city’s rise as a global port, its commercial exchanges, and its industrial development.

Bordeaux–Aquitaine in the 20ᵗʰ and 21ˢᵗ Centuries – The final section traces the contemporary evolution of the city and region up to the present day.

The Masterpieces of the Musée d’Aquitaine

Among the museum’s most remarkable treasures are the famousVenus of Laussel, an exceptional prehistoric sculpture, and the Gallic treasure of Tayac, illustrating the wealth of ancient civilizations in Aquitaine. The museum also houses ethnographic collections from Africa and Oceania, reflecting Bordeaux’s maritime history and its international exchanges. Here is a short, non-exhaustive selection:

The Venus of Laussel – An exceptional prehistoric sculpture depicting a female figure.

The Gallic gold torque – A massive necklace showcasing the craftsmanship of Celtic artisans.

The cenotaph of Michel de Montaigne – A monument dedicated to the renowned philosopher and former mayor of Bordeaux.

The bust of Cardinal de Sourdis by Bernini – A masterful work by the celebrated Italian sculptor.

The bronze statue of Hercules – A striking representation of the mythological hero.

Practical Information

Address: 20 Cours Pasteur, 33000 Bordeaux

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed on Mondays and public holidays.

Admission: Free entry for visitors under 18 and on the first Sunday of each month (except in July and August). Reduced rates are available for students and other eligible visitors.

Access: The museum can be reached via tram line B, “Musée d’Aquitaine” stop.

Please note: The Musée d’Aquitaine has been closed for renovation works since 4 November 2024, with reopening scheduled for May 2025. During this period, “off-site” activities are being organised.

For more information, please visit the museum’s official website: https://musee-aquitaine-bordeaux.fr/