Jean-Jacques Rousseau in every possible angle... That’s what the Musée Jean-Jacques Rousseau usually offers, located in Montmorency in the Val-d'Oise (95), through its collections and exhibitions. And for the Journées du Patrimoine, history and literature enthusiasts will be able to learn more about one of the most emblematic Enlightenment philosophers through guided tours, workshops and a treasure hunt on September 19 and 20, 2026.
The museum is located in the writer's home, Petit Mont-Louis, and offers tours of his garden, his study and the "Donjon", where Rousseau wrote La Nouvelle Héloïse, Émile ou de l'Éducation and Du Contrat social between 1757 and 1762. The site also hosts exhibitions and other cultural events throughout the year.
And as for the Heritage Days, this 43rd edition invites Parisians and residents of Île-de-France—and, more broadly, French citizens across the country—to explore a wealth of heritage sites, institutions, and other venues for free, with many opening their doors especially for the occasion. A wonderful chance to learn more about our history... Shall we make the most of the weekend, friends?
Jean-Jacques, at heart · Marie Busson
Marie Busson is a sculptor and visual artist who draws inspiration from nature and fills her work with a touch of magic. In dialogue with Rousseau’s writings and life, the artist invites visitors to a meditative retreat to rediscover the philosopher’s words through wooden totems, terracotta talismans, treasure stones, and vegetal huts.
A sensitive journey is offered from age 3 to help visitors reconnect with their own hearts.
Participation requirements: Free | No reservation required
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Sunday, September 20, 2026, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Guided tour of the philosopher's home
Come visit the house where Jean-Jacques Rousseau lived from 1757 to 1762. It’s in this tranquil setting that the philosopher penned his landmark works: Julie, or The New Heloise; Emile, or On Education; and The Social Contract. Extend your visit in the garden where he liked to stroll.
Participation terms: Tour every 30 minutes; 15 people per time slot - Free | No reservation required
Schedule: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM | Sunday, September 20, 2026 — 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Pen, ink, and the wax seal
Take up the pen to write a letter to a friend… or to an enemy! Then discover how, in the 18th century, people folded their letters to turn them into envelopes before sealing them with a wax seal. Leave with your correspondence, ready to be handed over… or carefully kept.
Participation conditions: While stocks last – Free | No reservation required
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 – 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM | Sunday, September 20, 2026 – 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Ruthless Enlightenment! Friendships & Rivalries in the Time of Jean-Jacques Rousseau
Through the collections of the Musée Jean-Jacques Rousseau and with the help of exceptional loans, discover how the luminaries of the Enlightenment came together or clashed over questions of aesthetics, morality, religion, and politics. A dive into an eighteenth century as brilliant as it was cruel.
Step into these grand debates and untangle the quarrels with a free game booklet and interactive displays.
A mediator will be on hand to answer all your questions.
Participation conditions: Free | No reservation required
Hours : Saturday, September 19, 2026, 2:00 PM ⤏ 6:00 PM | Sunday, September 20, 2026, 2:00 PM ⤏ 6:00 PM
Dates and Opening Time
From September 19, 2026 to September 20, 2026
Location
Jean-Jacques Rousseau Museum
5 Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau
95160 Montmorency
Route planner
Accessibility info
Prices
Free
Official website
www.ville-montmorency.fr
More information
Open from 2pm to 6pm.
