38,000 years ago in Aurignac… Prepare your tour of the Musée de l’Aurignacien and get ready to discover a very significant period in the history of humanity. Like an archaeologist’s apprentice, step into the time machine and set your sights on a prehistoric experience!

Back to the beginning

As soon as you arrive at the Musée de l’Aurignacien, you might be surprised by the design of the building. The architecture might remind you of a Californian loft, but rest assured, you’re in the right place!

Step in and you’ll be immersed in a fabulous museum space showcasing the various pieces of the collection.

The Musée de l’Aurignacien is dedicated to helping visitors better understand prehistory and the Aurignacian culture, which was brought to light with the discovery of the rock shelter of Aurignac in the 19th century.

We recommend the guided tour, since the comments of your chaperone will enable you to better understand the incredible history of Aurignacian man! In the permanent exhibition gallery, you’ll get the chace to admire an impressive collection of more than 300 everyday objects, including hunting equipment and the fossils of now-extinct animals. You’ll discover every aspect of life in the Aurignacian culture and experience a full immersion in the world of our fascinating ancestors.

In the footsteps of early humanity at the Musée d’Aurignac

After your tour of the museum, why not try out the Aurignacian life for yourself? The team is ready to awaken the caveman that lies dormant within you! Choose your initiation workshop: learn about archaeological digs or try your hand at flint knapping, and get a fire going in your imagination! Remember to check the website before your trip, since the activities calendar is regularly updated.

Prolong your experience of the Musée d’Aurignac with a tour of the eponymous prehistoric site where it all began. Remember to wear sensible shoes, since the visit entails a twenty-minute walk through the woods to the famous Aurignac rock shelter.

Our top picks at the Musée d’Aurignac

  • The 3D simulator that brings to life a cave lion based on a skeleton found in a nearby cave… A roaring good time!
  • The museum is not huge, but it is incredibly complete. Which has earned it the official “Musée de France” label…
  • Little educational films here and there show the techniques and routines of our ancestors!
  • A little cafeteria area offers a spot to enjoy the refreshment of a hot or cold drink.
  • A boutique featuring kids’ books, games, minerals and scale models gives you the opportunity to take home a souvenir.
#tourismeHG, View the summer holiday programme

Prepare your trip

Opening period: February to December, Wednesday to Sunday, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. (closed in January and on May 1st, November 1st and December 25th).
Opening times (school holidays): Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Rates

  • Adults (over the age of 18) : 6€
  • Youth (under the age of 18) : Free
  • Duo pass (2 adults) : 10€
  • Reduced rate : 4€

Tours available

Self-guided tour (duration 30 min) with tour booklets in French, English, German, Spanish and Dutch. Guided tour in French (duration 1 hour 30 min). Reservation at least 15 days in advance.

Practical information

  • Two car parks are provided for your use.
  • Picnic area on site.

For families

Play place for infants and children under the age of five. A game booklet is provided to each child, the ideal way for every member of the family to get the most out of the experience!

Contact
Avenue de Benabarre – 31420 Aurignac
Tél : 05 61 90 90 72
Mail : contact@musee-aurignacien.com
Site web : www.musee-aurignacien.com