Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature

Overview

The Museum of Hunting and Nature is arguably the most surprising, quirky, and brilliantly curated museum in Paris. Housed in two magnificent Marais mansions, it offers a highly philosophical, often surreal exploration of the relationship between humans and the animal kingdom.

Highlights

• The Taxidermy: Stunningly beautiful, incredibly diverse taxidermy—from massive polar bears to tiny exotic birds—displayed flawlessly like fine art.
• The Weaponry: An exquisite, world-class collection of highly ornate, heavily engraved Renaissance crossbows and flintlock rifles.
• Contemporary Art Interventions: The museum brilliantly hides bizarre, subversive modern art pieces (like a mechanical breathing fox or an owl ceiling fixture) directly amidst the historical artifacts.

History

Founded in 1964 by wealthy industrialist François Sommer and his wife Jacqueline, both avid conservationists and hunters. They completely restored the 17th-century Hôtel de Guénégaud specifically to house their vast collection, creating a space dedicated to promoting a highly respectful, sustainable vision of hunting and wildlife management.

Visitor Tips

• Expectations: This is not a gruesome display of hunting trophies; it feels much more like wandering through a surreal, heavily curated, wildly eccentric aristocratic home.
• Families: Older children absolutely love the eccentric taxidermy and hidden drawers, though it is too fragile for toddlers.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.