Museum of natural history

Animals, fossils, herbariums and minerals… The specimens in the museum exemplify the evolution of natural history. The role of the museum is to conserve these collections, to exhibit some of them and to ensure their transmission to future generations.

Permanent exhibition: The Blois area, at a crossroads of natural regions

Along the Loire, the Blois area is unveiled in a video presented at the museum entrance: moors and forests, ponds and rivers, dry lawns and marshlands, large-scale cereal crops and market gardening; between the Loire and the Cher, they demonstrate the geological diversity of the region.

What do owls eat at night? Take the time to discover their nocturnal menu, the microscopic multitude populating forest floors and the forms of life concealed under the bark of an ancient oak. A forest enlivened  by birdsong and animal cries will immerse you in nature via a 6-minute day-night cycle.

Fun and games to arouse curiosity

Observing, touching, playing… The museum renders nature concrete by means of its dioramas, interactive modules and games for visitors of all ages, particularly the young. It expands curiosity by focusing attention on the inconspicuous world that surrounds us, thereby enabling us to get a better grasp on its complexity and fragility.

Temporary exhibitions

Generally twice a year, a new temporary exhibition is set up in the museum. In each instance, science, nature and art are approached in such a way as to view the environment from a different angle. In addition, a small supplementary gallery regularly hosts photo and drawing exhibits associated with nature and current events.

Documentation and discovery space

To complement and enhance the visit, 1,500 books and reviews are devoted to the environment and adapted to readers of all ages (accessible on appointment). Activities are proposed throughout the year. Children on school outings will enjoy tailored educational presentations in a dedicated and spacious room.

Historical benchmarks

Brought into being at the end of the 19^th century by the Loir-et-Cher natural history society, at first the museum was lodged on the premises of the bishop’s palace. After bombardments during World War II, the Blois town hall moved into the palace, and it was only in 1983 that the museum collections were once again exhibited, following its installation in the one-time Jacobins convent with its 13^th-century buildings.