The Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days) is the big event that awaits you every September in Paris and throughout the Île-de-France region. This event, synonymous with cultural highlights, invites you to explore our heritage from every angle, thanks to an exciting and often free program of events in our heritage treasures.
For the occasion, a multitude of venues are opening their doors, including museums, monuments, castles, churches, libraries, but also major institutions, ministries, hospitals, fashion houses, and other spots just as fascinating as they are surprising. Unmissable masterpieces unfold alongside the capital’s best-kept secrets, as the Île-de-France region comes alive like never before for the Heritage Days. The next gathering: the weekend of September 19 and 20, 2026, for a 43rd edition that already looks exceptionally promising.
Would you like to take advantage of the exceptional openings during the Journées du Patrimoine ? If you're passionate about fossilization, prehistory or geology, you won't want to miss a visit to theInstitut de Paléontologie Humaine. Founded by Prince Albert 1st of Monaco in 1910, this scientific foundation is waiting to welcome you to its special program in the 13th arrondissement of Paris!
Exhibition "Prehistorians, Prehistory, Prehistoric"
### The Archives of Prehistory
### During an exceptional exhibition, come and discover the photographic and paper archives of the Institute of Human Paleontology (IPH) – Albert I, Prince of Monaco Foundation!
The Institute of Human Paleontology – Albert I, Prince of Monaco Foundation preserves a substantial trove of photographic and archival material. Each photo, each blueprint, each letter sheds light on the story of prehistory and recreates the pivotal discoveries of the early 20th century alongside famed paleontologists such as Father Breuil and Marcellin Boule.
Rediscover the fossils and artifacts of prehistory, engage in dialogue with some of the era’s most renowned scientists, and marvel at the IPH's collections during this rare, mini-exhibition!
Terms of participation : Free | No reservation required
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 09:00–12:00, 13:00–17:00 | Sunday, September 20, 2026 — 09:00–12:00, 13:00–17:00
Concert - preview: "La caverne des sons"
Discovery concert at the Institut de Paléontologie Humaine! 🎶
📣 On the occasion of Europe’s Heritage Days 2026, the IPH opens its doors and stages "The Cave of Sounds," an entirely new archeo-musical voyage!
Kryštof Mařatka, a Franco-C Czech composer captivated by ancient music and rock art, and Karine Lethiec, altoist, performer, researcher and director of the Ensemble Calliopée, invite you to a moment of sharing—an immersive, sensory experience that traces the origins of art and the sonic dimension of prehistory. 🎻
Between the display and a playful exploration of prehistoric instruments (bone flutes, deer antler, sea conch, horns, shells, pebbles...), and the performance of violon alto pieces inspired by these sonic imaginaries, this exceptional event will resonate with the deep connection between Humans, Nature, and Music. 🪈
Part workshop, part musical interpretation, blending Arts and Sciences, a journey to the sources of imagination and human creativity... A date not to be missed! 🎵
📍 Institut de Paléontologie Humaine, 1 rue René Panhard, 75013 PARIS
📆 Saturday, September 19, 2026
🕡 from 3:00 PM
🖱️ Free admission with reservation by email at p.leveque@fondationiph.org
Participation terms: Limited to 100 attendees - Free | Registration required - p.leveque@fondationiph.org
Schedule: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 3:00 PM to 4:15 PM
Dates and Opening Time
From September 19, 2026 to September 20, 2026
Location
Institute of Human Paleonthology
1 rue René Panhard
75013 Paris 13
Route planner
Prices
Free
Official website
www.fondationiph.org
