Museum of the island of Oléron: immersion in island history!

Beyond its oceanic landscapes, its endless sandy beaches and its salt marshes which stretch as far as the eye can see, the island of Oléron is renowned for its culture and its ancestral traditions. The island conceals a thousand and one heritage, religious, marine and agricultural treasures, many of which retain the marks of time and contribute to the uniqueness of this windswept territory. To discover the richness of its history, its population and the natural elements that have shaped it from time immemorial to the present day, nothing like a visit to the Museum of the Island of Oléron. Direction the center of Saint-Pierre d'Oléron!

A journey back in time

Located in a large building in the heart of Saint-Pierre d'Oléron, the Museum of the Island of Oléron concentrates 6000 years of history and culture in one and the same place, from the Neolithic to the present day.

By its origin and its very nature, the Museum of the island of Oléron is a place of exhibition and enhancement of local heritage. Labeled "Museum of France" by the Ministry of Culture, this museum establishes its place in the big leagues, across the island. Once past the front door, it invites you to stroll through a thematic route in several chronological spaces.

Between light and dark, the museography presents a harmonious framework for visits, like a journey through the times and the economic activities of the island: viticulture, tapping (harvesting of pine resin), salt production, fishing, oyster farming… Paleoanthropological remains, jewellery, metals, paintings, traditional costumes and headdresses, agricultural machinery, models, photos… nearly 500 collector's items are exhibited for the pleasure of the eyes and the pleasure of learning!

Immerse yourself in the heart of the traditions and lifestyles of Oléron Island

The development of tourist activity around 1880 and the arrival of the viaduct in 1966 had a local and global impact on the economy, but also on the spaces and on Oléronaise society. The Museum of the Island of Oléron has this power to transport visitors to the time when the Island of Oléron was only an isolated island territory, conducive to a cultural identity expression. By presenting the lifestyles of the 19th century through a richly endowed dwelling house, the museum gives visitors a wide possibility of imagination and perspective: objects, kitchen utensils, furniture and a series of unique pieces project us into the daily life of the inhabitants of the island of Oléron. Several multimedia devices are also set up: oyster farming is presented by the projection of the historical film "Oyster fishing on Ile d'Oleron", shot in 1907 at the Château d'Oléron.

In addition to the permanent collections, the museum leads a dynamic policy of temporary exhibitions, conferences and events. The icing on the cake, the course is educational and makes children happy: low display cases, illustrations, multitudes of objects within easy reach. A captivating place that satisfies the curiosity of all audiences!

Practical information:

Museum of the Island of Oléron

9 Place Gambetta

17310 Saint Pierre d'Oleron

Phone: 05.46.75.05.16

Schedule:

November, December (until 15), February, March: open every day except Monday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., open for groups every day by reservation. (except January).

April, May, June, September, October: open every day from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

July and August: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Free Sunday : admission to the Museum of the Island of Oléron is free every first Sunday of the month from November to March (except January)

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Article and photos prepared by Lesley Williamson for the Guide Charente Maritime