Muséum du Coquillage, Shell museum in Les Sables-d'Olonne, France
The Muséum du Coquillage is a museum in Les Sables-d'Olonne housing roughly 50,000 shells from different regions worldwide, particularly from Indonesia and Asia. The collection also includes corals, marine creatures, and objects crafted from these materials such as jewelry and other handmade items.
The building opened in 1895 and marked the start of systematic shell collection and preservation in Les Sables-d'Olonne. The collection grew over decades through expeditions and acquisitions from distant lands, becoming one of the most significant of its kind.
The displays present shells and corals organized by theme, showing how these materials have been used by people throughout history. You can see how shells were crafted into jewelry, tools, and decorations, reflecting their importance across different cultures.
You can explore the rooms at your own pace and take time to look at each piece without rushing. A museum shop offers souvenirs and books, and staff members are available to answer questions.
The museum houses a special collection of shark teeth and related objects that reveal how dangerous and fascinating the ocean world can be. These pieces offer a different perspective on the seas than what visitors typically expect from a museum display.
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