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, is a nugget well worth the detour.
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 :
Reservations are recommended, and tickets are available on site.
From one world to another: the exhibition that tells the story of Autun at the Musée d'Archéologie Nationale
The Musée d'archéologie nationale presents "D'un monde à l'autre : Autun from Antiquity to the Middle Ages", a fascinating exhibition on view from February 17 to June 17, 2024. [Read more]Nuit des Musées 2024 at the Musée d'Archéologie Nationale du Domaine de Saint-Germain-en-Laye (78)
To mark Museum Night, the Musée d'Archéologie Nationale - Domaine National de Saint-Germain-en-Laye is opening its doors free of charge on Saturday, May 18, 2024. Numerous activities are planned for the whole family. [Read more]
Location
National Archaeology Museum
Domaine National de Saint-Germain-en-Laye
78100 Saint Germain en Laye
Prices
€5.5
Official website
musee-archeologienationale.fr
More information
Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free admission on the first Sunday of the month.