Musée de l’Aurignacien: back to the roots
38,000 years ago in Aurignac… As you plan your visit to the Aurignac Museum, you’re about to discover a whole chapter of our history. Like apprentice archaeologists, step into the time machine—destination: Prehistory!
Back to the origins
As soon as you arrive at the Musée de l’Aurignacien, you’ll probably be surprised by the building’s design. While the architecture feels more like a Californian loft, you’re definitely in the right place!
Once you step through the doors, you’ll be transported into a space that showcases the different elements of the collection.
The Aurignac Museum is dedicated to understanding Prehistory and the Aurignacian culture, brought to light with the discovery of the Aurignac rock shelter in the 19th century.
We recommend choosing the guided tour: the guide’s commentary will help you better understand the incredible story of the Aurignac people! In the permanent exhibition room, you can admire an impressive collection of more than 300 objects: daily life, hunting, and even the bones of animals that have since disappeared… Every aspect of the Aurignacian is on display, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the life of this fascinating ancestor.
In the footsteps of the first humans at the Aurignac Museum
After your museum visit, why not step into the shoes of an Aurignacian? The team has thought of everything to awaken the cave person within you! On the agenda, you can choose between an introductory workshop on archaeological digs and flint knapping—you can even learn how to make fire! Be sure to check the website before your visit, as the activity schedule changes regularly.
Extend your experience at the Aurignac Museum by heading to the prehistoric site of the same name, where it all began. Remember to wear good shoes, as a 20-minute walk through the woods is needed before you reach the famous Aurignac rock shelter.
♥ Our favourites at the Aurignac Museum ♥
- The museum is incredibly comprehensive, which is why it has been awarded the Musée de France label…
- Short, very clear films show you the gestures and techniques of our ancestors!
- A small café area lets you relax while sipping hot and cold drinks.
- A shop combining children’s books, games, minerals and reconstructions lets you take home a souvenir.
Plan Your Visit
The Musée de l’Aurignacien is open all year round.
Visits available
- The museum offers free audio guides in several languages (French, Spanish, German, and audio description).
- Groups & Schools: guided tours of the museum collections, as well as demonstration and hands-on workshops to take your discovery of Prehistory further.
PRICES
- Adults (18+): €6
- Young people (under 18): Free
- Duo pass (2 adults): €10
- Reduced rate: €4
Practical Information
Opening hours
- Open Wednesday to Sunday from 2 PM to 6 PM, and Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 12:30 PM and from 1:30 PM to 6 PM during school holidays in Zone C (Toulouse).
- Closed in January, on May 1, November 1 and December 25.
For families
Activity booklets are available at reception to discover the permanent exhibition while having fun.
The activity booklet “On the trail of footprints” invites you to follow the footprints of prehistoric animals along the path leading to the shelter.
Musée de l’Aurignacien
Avenue de Benabarre – 31420 Aurignac
Tel.: 05 61 90 90 72 Email contact@musee-aurignacien.com
Website: www.musee-aurignacien.com
Getting to AURIGNAC without a car:
LiO bus: line 320 Aurignac — Boussens SNCF train station
LiO bus: line 391 Alan — Aurignac — Saint-Gaudens