Archaeology enthusiasts are gearing up for the 22nd edition of the Museum Night, taking place at the Val-d'Oise Archaeological Museum in Guiry-en-Vexin. Visitors can enjoy a special, exclusive evening tour that’s free of charge on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Established in 1983, this regional museum invites the public to explore more than 3,000 archaeological artifacts from its collection of 35,000 pieces housed within the museum’s walls.
On the visitor's side, a beautiful tour links prehistory to contemporary times, from the sculpted blocks of the Genainville sanctuary, rebuilt in the 2nd century, to the concrete statues of the Soviet Pavilion at the 1937Exposition Internationale des Arts et Techniques de la Vie Moderne. Alongside the permanent exhibition, a rich and varied program awaits you, offering you the chance to discover the region's archaeological artefacts while having fun, through special tours, workshops and lectures.
And for younger visitors, La Passerelle, de la fouille à l'exposition (from dig to exhibition) invites them to discover archaeology at their own level, from research to prospecting to valorisation, by putting themselves in the shoes of an archaeologist on an excavation site, but also in the shoes of a laboratory researcher, a museum curator and an exhibition curator. In short, a beautiful museum to discover during this cultural event by night!
### The Dark Legend of the Merovingians
Take a journey through the temporary exhibition and explore, or rediscover, the dark and surprising stories that fueled the infamous reputation of the Merovingian kings—from the Soissons Vase to the so-called "lazy kings," and including the legendary story of King Dagobert’s trousers.
### Quick Tour of the Exhibition
The Archaeological Museum of Val d’Oise invites you to a unique participatory experience, blending history, role-playing, and choose-your-own-adventure storytelling.
Embark on an immersive, interactive, and playful journey into the daily life of the Franks. Step into the shoes of a Merovingian character, shaping your own destiny. Guided by an interactive Web App or game booklets, craft your personal path, make your choices, and face the challenges of the past. Will you become influential, or fade into obscurity?
This engaging and accessible experience combines the thrill of play with historical discovery and archaeological insight, offering a deeper understanding of the early Middle Ages through the latest research findings.
### Merlin the Enchanter
Seven-year-old wizard Merlin, gifted with the ability to transform at will, faces off against the ruthless King Vortigern to defend the mystical Brocéliande Forest. Storyteller Mélody takes you on this adventure through enchanting music and magic, while artist Lorenzo Bello creates a masterpiece in real-time during the show.
Presented by the Ôokaï Company
### Savor the History!
As you explore the permanent exhibits, indulge in tastes from the past with tastings of specialty dishes inspired by historic flavors.
Tasting tour, suitable for ages 8 and up
Le programme est mis à jour selon les annonces officielles
Dates and Opening Time
On May 23, 2026
Location
Val d'Oise archaeological museum
4 Place du Château
95450 Guiry en Vexin
Access
RER A station "Cergy le Haut", then bus 95-23 stop "Abribus".
Prices
Free
Official website
www.valdoise.fr
