Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology

This collection is the largest in France after that of the Louvre. The Mediterranean Basin and Near East department boasts a rich ceramics and lapidary collection, some of which are unique. These include the Cretan oenochoe, decorated with Mediterranean marine fauna.

A wealth of collections
Currently housed on the second floor of the former Hospice de La Charité, the Musée d'Archéologie Méditerranéenne showcases collections mostly acquired during the 19th century and the first decades of the 20th century. Representing the eastern and central civilizations of the Mediterranean, they come from private collections, some of which have been assembled since the 18th century, from archaeological digs and chance discoveries. By acquiring them from collectors and their heirs, or from art dealers, the museum does not in turn become a mere collector.
By making these collections public, it gives them scientific and cultural meaning. This is an opportunity to recall the history of a museum with over 150 years' experience, which is now responsible for presenting its antique collections.

The "Near East, Mediterranean Basin" department of the Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology is being embellished and enriched to offer the public a new museography from June 15, 2018. A sociological and geo-thematic trail will now offer visitors a better understanding of ancient civilizations by discovering what they brought us and what they left us... From the birth of the city to the first alphabets, from the invention of glass to the technique of Greek ceramics, from the omnipresent polychromy on all ancient works to the most elaborate foundry techniques... All these inventions, still in use today, will be detailed and illustrated by a rich collection of 400 pieces. This new department, innovative in its approach, will make the link between ancient and modern history.
Some rooms may be closed. Please contact the museum before visiting.
Permanent exhibition area: 800
Temporary exhibition area: 1500

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