Musée d'histoire et d'archéologie de Vannes

Museum in Vannes

Salle Du Rez De Chaussée Du Musée Château Gaillard

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Frédéric BISSON

The Musée d’Histoire et d’Archéologie de Vannes, housed in the historic Château Gaillard, is a treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits that trace the rich history of Vannes and the surrounding region. This 15th-century urban manor, classified as a historic monument, provides a fitting backdrop for the museum’s extensive collections, which span from prehistory to the Gallo-Roman era and beyond.

Highlights of the Museum:

Neolithic Artifacts: The museum boasts an exceptional collection of funerary items from the Neolithic period, including polished axes, rare jadeite ornaments, and pottery from significant megalithic sites like Carnac and Locmariaquer.
Protohistoric and Gallo-Roman Finds: Displays include bronze tools, weapons, jewelry, and everyday objects that offer insights into life during the Bronze and Iron Ages, as well as Roman times.
Medieval and Renaissance Treasures: The museum showcases decorative tiles, architectural elements, and artifacts from local sites, reflecting the artistic and cultural evolution of the region.
Natural History and Global Collections: In addition to regional artifacts, the museum features natural specimens, such as fossils and minerals, as well as items from Oceania and the Mediterranean, including Carthaginian urns and Etruscan bronze vessels.

The museum also includes an exhibit titled “From Excavation to Museum,” which explains the journey of archaeological finds from discovery to public display. This educational feature enhances visitors’ understanding of the meticulous work involved in preserving history.

The Musée d'histoire et d'archéologie de Vannes appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Vannes!

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