Musée Valentin Haüy, Museum of blind education in 7th district, France
The Musée Valentin Haüy is a museum in Paris dedicated to the history of blind education, displaying learning materials, equipment, and objects for hands-on exploration. The collection systematically documents how teaching and learning methods for visually impaired people have developed from their origins to today.
The institution was founded in 1886 when Professor Edgard Guilbeau from the National Institute for Young Blind People established the museum to honor Valentin Haüy and his pioneering work in blind education. This founding was an important step in preserving the achievements of blind pedagogy and making them accessible to future generations.
The collection showcases reading and writing systems developed specifically for blind learners over the centuries. Visitors can see how these techniques evolved from early raised-letter approaches to modern braille.
The museum is located in an accessible area of the 7th district and opens during select afternoon hours with no admission fee. Visitors should check current opening times in advance, as access may be limited depending on the day.
The museum houses a collection of Art Nouveau furniture from 1907, specifically designed as a cabinet of curiosities for tactile exploration of different textures and forms. These pieces offer visitors a distinctive sensory experience that deepens understanding of touch-based perception.
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