Museum d'Histoire Naturelle Aix-en-Provence

The Museum d'Histoire Naturelle Aix-en-Provence is a natural history museum in a historic mansion and houses extensive collections of paleontological, zoological, botanical, and mineralogical specimens spanning multiple geological periods. The holdings include fossils, animal specimens, plant material, and minerals that document the biological and geological history of the region.

A geologist established the museum in 1838 and it opened to the public shortly thereafter. The building itself dates from earlier centuries and has long served as the home for this scientific collection.

The museum reflects the region's long-standing commitment to scientific knowledge and preserves collections that have educated generations of students and researchers. Visitors gain insight into how local scientific traditions have shaped the understanding of nature in Provence.

The collections are currently not accessible in their full form as they have been relocated from their original home. Visitors should check ahead, as plans exist for reopening at a new location.

The collection contains particularly extensive material on local fossils and demonstrates the geological diversity of Provence across millions of years. This regional focus makes it an important resource for understanding the area's natural history.

Location: Aix-en-Provence

Founders: Henri Coquand

Phone: +33488718181

Website: https://museum-aix-en-provence.org

GPS coordinates: 43.52806,5.44889

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:03