Why did it take 10 years to renovate the Museum of Bordeaux?
Renovating a museum is a complex operation. The project required reconciling the renovation of a historic building, the constraints of conserving the collections and requirements in terms of saving energy and ensuring public safety. Major works were carried out in three buildings. The renovation of the Hôtel de Lisleferme which houses the museum started in 2015. In May 2018, while the team was working hard for the reopening planned for November, the Museum of Bordeaux unfortunately suffered considerable water damage as the result of a hailstorm.
After 10 years and many obstacles along the way, we have delivered a museum that is both environmentally-friendly and equipped with innovative facilities to cater to every category of visitor in the best conditions.
Where do you store the millions of specimens?
Around 3,500 specimens are on display. The others are conserved at our ‘Centre de Conservation des Collections’ where the museum team are based and experts come on an ad hoc basis.
What is taxidermy?
Taxidermy is the process of preserving specimens in positions so they look like they are still alive, hence the other term ‘naturalisation’. This process is generally practised on vertebrates. The skin is tanned then mounted on a model which the taxidermist puts into the desired pose.
Where do you source the animals you stuff?
We have established agreements with authorised organisations such as zoos, the French National Hunting and Wildlife Office, and wildlife health centres like the LPO (bird protection league) in Audenge. Our partners notify us about dead animals whose remains are suitable for skeleton mounting or taxidermy. On occasion, authorised museum personnel recover roadkill from public highways.
Where can coaches park?
Coaches can stop on the Cours de Verdun where passengers can alight safely. Drivers can then move and park at the coach park provided by the company TBM between Allée de Bristol and Allée de Chartres. For more information call +33 (0)5 57 57 88 88.
Where are the closest disabled parking spaces to the Museum?
Place du Champ de Mars – Rue Albert de Mun – Rue Emile Zola – Rue Francis Martin and Rue Ferrere.
Is there anywhere to eat or drink in the Museum?
Refreshments are available in the Relaxation Square on the first floor of the Museum. In fine weather, visitors can enjoy a picnic in the gardens.
Can we take photos?
Visitors are permitted to take photos provided no flash or tripod/stand are used and they are for non-commercial use.
Who are the people in white shirts?
The white-shirted assistants who you may have spotted in one of the rooms are our facilitators. Part of their job is to answer questions from visitors, be they school groups or individual adults and children.