The Musée des Arts et Métiers: a historical journey through the greatest inventions

The Musée des Arts et Métiers is a journey back in time to discover the greatest inventions of all time! From scientific instruments to means of communication, energy, mechanical tools and transport, you'll discover thousands of objects that revolutionized their era, in the heart of a sublime site, listed as a historic monument. Founded by Abbé Henri Grégoire, a politician and scientist, this unique museum appeals to the curious and lovers of science and history.

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It houses one of the world's oldest industrial and technological collections, including Clément Ader's Aéroplane, known as Avion n° 3, Foucault's pendulum, Pascal's Machine arithmétique, Lavoisier's Gazomètre, Thimonnier's model of the first sewing machine and the model of the "Telstar 1" telecommunications satellite, as well as some 80,000 objects. Fun installations such as the Salle de l'écho offer fun for all the family!

The museum opened its doors in 1802, after the French Revolution, in the former royal abbey of Saint-Martin-des-Champs. Since then, it has gone from strength to strength, housing varied collections ranging from medieval machines to contemporary inventions. Organized into seven thematic departments, it highlights emblematic objects that have shaped our world, in temporary exhibitions and a fascinating permanent tour.

As guardian of our technological heritage, the Musée des Arts et Métiers plays an essential role in educating and delighting present and future generations, through lectures and workshops for all ages. In addition to the audioguides, the Mission Inventions application lets you discover the museum and its collections in a fun, family-friendly way!

The museum is open every day except Monday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., while on Fridays you can enjoy a nocturne until 9 p.m. To visit the museum with complete peace of mind, book your tickets in advance: the full rate is 12 euros, the reduced rate is 9 euros, and admission is free for under-26s. On the first Sunday of every month and at night, admission is free! To get to the museum, take metro line 11 or 3 and get off at Arts et Métiers.

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