In the centre of Orléans, a few steps from the Maison Jeanne d'Arc, the Hôtel Cabu is today a Museum of History and Archaeology.
Built in 1547 for the lawyer Philippe CabuThis private mansion, whose architecture is attributed to none other than Jacques Androuet du Cerceau, is one of the most remarkable Renaissance buildings in the cityIts façade, organized on three levels and adorned with rich decoration, is a superb example of the Henri II style. Legend has it that his favorite, Diane de Poitiers, stayed there to recover from a fall from her horse in 1551.
In 1823, André Gaspard Parfait, Count of Bizemont-Prunelé and deputy mayor of Orléans, decided to found a Museum of History and Archaeology which he installed in 1823 in the Hôtel des Créneaux, now an annex of the conservatory. collections were transferred to the Hôtel Cabu in the mid-19th century and the current museum was officially inaugurated in 1879.extraordinary collection of Gallic and Gallo-Roman bronzes fortuitously found a few years later in the commune of Neuvy-en-Sullias, it was installed there. Since then, it has been the museum's treasure, the centerpiece of which is undoubtedly the sculpted horse, of exceptional craftsmanship enhanced by a spun bronze bridle. Other animal sculptures and two groups of statuettes complete this remarkable find.
In June 1940, the Hôtel Cabu was seriously damaged. damaged by German bombingThe museum did not reopen to the public until about twenty years later, after the addition of two houses dating from the 15th and 16th centuries respectively, in order to preserve these heritage gems and to expand the space dedicated to the exhibition of the collections.
Today, three main areas are presented to the public.history of the city is evoked by the story of Joan of Arc, heroine of the Hundred Years' War who went down in history as the "Maid of Orléans", and the industrial past of the region marked by the glorious history of Loire River navigation. Medieval architecture is represented by a fine collection of medieval works, including the stucco work in the oratory of Germigny-des-Prés and the capitals of the Abbey of Saint-Benoît-sur-Loire. wonders of Neuvy-en-Sullias finally complete the visit.
Open all year round from Tuesday to SundayThe Orléans Museum of History and Archaeology allows you to delve into the history of one of the largest and most important cities in the Loire Valley. To complement your visit, numerous workshops are offered to the public: introductions to ceramics or archaeology, discovery of period techniques, tile decoration, and many other activities for lovers of art and history!
