In Bures-sur-Yvette, tours of the mineralogy museum for Heritage Days 2026

Nestled on the campus of the Faculté des sciences d'Orsay, in Bures-sur-Yvette en Essonne, the collection de minéralogie de l'Université Paris-Saclay unveils its behind-the-scenes ahead of the Journées du Patrimoine 2026. This free outing in Île-de-France invites curious minds and geology enthusiasts to admire rare pieces normally reserved for researchers and university students.

Far from crowded tourist routes, the museum houses thousands of meticulously cataloged samples dating back to the mid-20th century. Crystals with hypnotic geometries, volcanic rocks bearing witness to the Earth's upheavals, or meteorites from the far reaches of the solar system: the tour offers a true leap through time. This is mineralogy in its most tangible form: the physical and chemical study of crystalline inorganic substances, where the perfect symmetry of atomic lattices gives rise to metallic hues and captivating translucent glints.

• To be read
• This week's top picks for Paris and the Île-de-France region, August 31–September 6, 2026

As you stroll past the display cases, the science mediators and geologists of Paris-Saclay share the story behind these natural curiosities. The specialists can also explain how certain phosphorescent minerals respond to ultraviolet light, creating an unexpected play of light that delights both young and old.

The 2026 Heritage Days program at the Orsay Mineralogy Museum in Bures-sur-Yvette

• Visit to the Mineralogy Museum

  Once the handling room for Europe’s first particle accelerator and the ancestor of the SOLEIL synchrotron, the Mineralogy Museum now showcases more than a hundred minerals in spectacular shapes and colors. Come and discover or rediscover minerals and rocks from across the globe. Geological and tectonic maps (including Europe’s first map, created in 1962) alongside mission photos will help you better understand the world of geological research. You can explore the museum at your own pace using the explanatory panels, or benefit from the guided explanations offered by our staff.

  Accès : https://maps.app.goo.gl/4UDTEUEEtrABTbB89

  Participation requirements: Free | No reservation required

  Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM | Sunday, September 20, 2026 — 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM

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