aurillac

In a seventeenth century building, rebuild by a modern architect, very vivid museographic presentations showcase both ancient and contemporary collections.

A reconstructed “cantalien” interior (with audiovisual commentary) serves as an introduction to Cantal's past from prehistoric to medieval times in the archaeology rooms  (bifaces, remains from the Gallo-Roman temple of Aron, objects from medieval life).

The art collection exhibits paintings and sculptures from the seventeenth century to today. Among the most notable works are the religious paintings from the Italian school or from the workshop of Guy François; works by Joseph Vernet, Watelet or even Henri Lebasque and Camille Claudel, are found  next to local artists like Chapsal or Charbonnel.

The collections of early photographs (from the collection of Parry and Marty) or of contemporary photographs (from the collection of Albert Monier and famous artists such as Batho, Saudek, Callahan, Drahos, or Nils-Udo) are presented during temporary exhibitions.

The Originality of the museum resides in this collection of reference but equally in the evocation of the local  industry of umbrellas and of the Saint-Esprit, typical jewels from Aurillac.

There are two rooms for temporary exhibitions, one that is educational, designed for youth and the second dedicated to early and contemporary photography. The museum houses a rich photography collection, notably those of Parry or Monier but also prints from well-known contemporary photographers, like Batho, Saudeck, Fleisher, Callahan, Catany...

There are many planned activities during the visit, video projection spaces, workshops during the holidays (more American, during vacation), birthdays for children under 12 years old, conferences and workshops for adults and, by appointment, a research archive specializing in archeology, art and local history.

Horary :

Open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 12 pm and from 2 pm to 6 pm,
Open every Sunday in July and August from 2 pm to 6 pm. Close from February to November
Groups are welcome throughout the year by reservation. Closed on holidays.

Rates

General admission : 2,50€
Reduced price : 1,50€
Free for children under 18
Ticket purchased with admission to the “muséum des volcans” : 4,50€

But there are also two other showrooms :

“La sellerie” : Photographic space Albert Monier. (Free admission)

This room reserved for contemporary photography is open throughout the year and allows you to explore the research of young photographers; or even to follow the paths of well-known artists, but also to discover the rich photography collections acquired by the museum over the past thirty years.

Exhibitions Hours
Open from Tuesday to Saturday from  2pm to 6pm
Open in the morning for the groups by reservation
Closed on holidays

“Les Ecuries” : Showrooms of contemporary art. (Free admission)

The “Ecuries” gallery reserves a place of expression for contemporary artists from  different backgrounds. Three times a year you can explore the universe of these artists through their paintings, drawings, engravings, sculptures, photos and even through applied arts pieces.

Exhibitions Hours
Open from Monday to Saturday from 1:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Open in the morning for the groups by reservation
Closed on holidays.