The Museum of National Archaeology - Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye

The Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, high up in the Yvelines, was one of the royal residences of François I. Today, it houses the national archaeology museum. Today, it houses the Musée d'Archéologie Nationale, with over 29,000 objects on display!

Want to plunge into the heart of history? Head for Saint-Germain-en-Laye. Its château, located in the heart of the town just off the RER A, awaits you for cultural visits.

Built in the 12th century by King Louis VI le Gros, the Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye was originally an elevated fortress, set up on a high site to protect it from attack. Saint-Germain became the favorite residence of King François I, who had the fortress transformed in Renaissance style. Today, this magnificent monument is home to the Musée d'Archéologie Nationale, housing masterpieces of Celtic and Gallo-Roman antiquity, as well as artefacts from the Paleolithic to the early Middle Ages.

In the rooms of this museum, more than 29,000 objects in an itinerary ranging from Prehistory to Celtic Gaul have also been designed to avoid overcrowding, and are open to the public at a reduced rate, accompanied by renewed signage.

In terms of tours and events, visitors will be able to discover :

The Edouard Piette Collection
Step back in time and discover a museum room unlike any other in the world. Designed in the 19th century and preserved in its original museography, it contains Paleolithic treasures, including the famous "Lady in the Hood". Ages 13 and up. Duration: 1 hour.

History of the Château and visits to the roofs
The museum invites you to discover the history of the Château via the roof terraces, which offer a breathtaking view of the inner courtyard, the Château grounds and an exceptional panorama of the Seine valley. Ages 13 and up. Duration: 1 hour.
A remarkable Château and garden
This bucolic tour sheds a different light on the history and architecture of the Château and garden. Ages 13 and up. Length: 1 hour.
Thematic tours
Deepen your knowledge by exploring a part of the collections (Palaeolithic-Mesolithic, Neolithic-Bronze Age, Iron Age). Ages 13 and up. duration: 1h.

Reservations are recommended, and tickets are available on site.

Museum news :
Brain Race: a charity run that brings generations together!
The Brain Race is back on September 13, 2026 at the Domaine national du Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, with 2.5 km, 5 km and 10 km routes to run or walk in support of brain research, in a sporty, supportive and family-friendly atmosphere. [Read more]