Carré Plantagenêt, museum in France
Carré Plantagenêt is an archaeological museum in the center of Le Mans that focuses on the region's history from prehistoric times through the Middle Ages. The building blends modern design with a restored historic printing works and organizes artifacts like coins, pottery, and tools into five thematic exhibition sections.
The museum opened in 2009 with the goal of preserving and sharing local history based on excavations since the 1970s. Its collections document the region's development from early humans through ancient tribes and Roman times to the medieval era of the Plantagenet family.
The name refers to the royal family that once ruled parts of France and England, shaping the region's identity. This historical connection remains visible in the museum's collections and how locals relate to their area's past.
The museum is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from the city center or old town, with cafes and shops nearby. Visitors can choose between quick orientation tours and longer guided experiences that include scenographic displays, interactive features, and explanations in different languages.
The collection includes rare objects like the Venus of Rextugenos, an ancient sculpture, and the Coëffort treasure, which reveal long-forgotten aspects of regional history. A particular highlight is Plantagenet enamel, showing the artistic skill of earlier times.
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