The Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature in Paris: an exploration of the human-animal relationship

Nestled in the Marais district of Paris, the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature offers a unique insight into hunting, nature and the complex relationship between man and animal. This unusual museum invites visitors to discover an exceptional collection, while encouraging reflection on our relationship with flora and fauna.

The Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature was founded in Paris in 1964 by François and Jacqueline Sommer, both passionate about hunting and nature. The museum's mission is to question man's place in nature, and to encourage reflection on hunting, biodiversity and the coexistence of man and animal. The museum is housed in two private mansions, theHôtel de Guénégaud and theHôtel de Mongelas, dating from the 17th and 18th centuries respectively, and features richly decorated rooms, ornate ceilings and secret gardens. It is in this historic setting that we are invited to immerse ourselves in the museum's collections.

It boasts a varied collection of over 7,000 pieces exploring the relationship between man and nature over the centuries. Among the most remarkable pieces are ancient weapons, hunting trophies, contemporary artworks, photographs and sculptures. The museum also houses a collection of naturalized animals, and among these stuffed creatures are some astonishing species, including a bizarre cockerel and a narwhal tooth.

In addition to its permanent collections, the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature regularly stages temporary exhibitions on a variety of themes relating to hunting, nature and conservation. These exhibitions invite in-depth reflection on contemporary issues relating to biodiversity, environmental protection and the relationship between man and animal. The museum also organizes a rich and varied cultural program, including lectures, workshops, meetings with artists, concerts and film screenings. These events aim to broaden visitors' horizons and encourage discussion around these essential themes.

To plan your visit to the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature, here's some practical information:

Opening hours: The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 6pm. Closed on Mondays and public holidays. We recommend you check the exact opening times on the website before your visit. A nocturne awaits you every Wednesday until 9:30pm.
Admission: Museum admission is €12 full price, €10 concessions. The museum is free on the first Sunday of the month. Admission is free for children under 18.
Access: The Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature is easily accessible by public transport. You can take metro line 1 (Saint-Paul station) or metro line 8 (Chemin Vert station).

The Museum of Hunting and Nature in Paris is evolving
The Musée de la Chasse closed its doors in 2019 to carry out expansion work. It also took the opportunity to enrich its collections and review its scenography, in order to question the relationship of Man to living things. Reopening planned for spring 2021. [Read more]