If you’re looking to learn more about the Musée des Confluences in Lyon and its captivating permanent exhibition, you’re in the right place! At the meeting point of the Rhône and Saône rivers, the museum is perfectly integrated into the Lyon landscape. As the worthy successor to the Musée Guimet, it has become a true cultural landmark in the Rhône-Alpes region. We are delighted to introduce you to this unmissable cultural gem of our beautiful city.
Presentation of the Museum
The Musée des Confluences is an architectural marvel located right where the Rhône and Saône meet. From the moment you arrive in front of this impressive building, you’ll be fascinated by its bold, contemporary design. The interior is equally striking, offering a modern, interactive space where natural history, science, and societies converge. While the museum is renowned for its architecture, it is above all celebrated for its temporary exhibitions and permanent collection.
At the Confluence of Knowledge
At the southern tip of the Confluence district, next to La Mulatière, you’ll discover the heir of the Musée Guimet. The Musée des Confluences takes visitors on a journey through natural history, societies, and civilizations. Easily accessible by public transport (bus, tram, metro) from Saint-Genis-Laval, the building overlooks Lyon’s two rivers like a diamond, shimmering with mirrors and reflections.
Close to the natural setting of the Camping des Barolles, you can reach the “Jardin de la Confluence” by strolling along the Rhône and Saône riverbanks all the way to the famous shopping center (museum open daily during school holidays, except on certain public holidays). The collections of the Musée Guimet are highlighted across the exhibition rooms in a colorful, engaging program (guided tours available, fully accessible).
The Permanent Exhibition
The permanent exhibition of the Musée des Confluences is a journey across ages and cultures. As you explore its different galleries, you’ll be immersed in a unique, interactive experience. From dinosaurs to ancient civilizations, from the wonders of biodiversity to technological innovations, every step reveals treasures and surprising knowledge.
You’ll encounter rare specimens, fascinating works of art, and groundbreaking scientific discoveries. Designed with interactivity in mind, the exhibitions invite you to touch, sense, and experiment. The richness and diversity of the collections will transport you through time and space.
Origins
The first gallery, “Origins: Stories of the World,” explores the fundamental question: Where do we come from?
Visitors can follow this theme through five stages:
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First steps toward our origins
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Adaptation of species
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Life and water
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Formation of Earth and the Universe
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Conquering time and space
Species
The second gallery, “Species: The Web of Life,” addresses the question: Who are we?
To understand humanity’s place within the living world, the museum presents four themes:
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Humans as symbolic animals
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Humans within the diversity of life
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Humans as unique beings
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Humans and their impact
Societies
Once the questions Where do we come from? and Who are we? have been explored, the third gallery, “Societies: The Theater of Mankind,” asks: What do we do?
It is structured around three key themes:
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Organize
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Exchange
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Create
Eternities
Finally, the last gallery, “Eternities: Visions of the Hereafter,” poses the question: Where are we going?
It explores death and funeral practices in four stages:
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Passages between two worlds
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Contemporary views on death
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The materiality of death
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Giving meaning to death
Exhibition Cycles in the Heart of Nature
From the Gallery of Evolution (from skeletons to the stars) to temporary exhibitions, the museum offers something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the jungle to discover rare birds – from swallows to the kakapo (until 02/01/22). Explore the Makay Massif in Madagascar (until 22/08/21). Or experience “Africa in Color” (until 22/08/21).
A Museum Integrated into its Environment
The strength of the museum lies in its modern architecture – inside and out – and in the variety of its collections, both permanent and temporary, such as the Mammoth of Choulans. The Musée des Confluences benefits from a spacious, light-filled setting at the crossroads of knowledge, just steps from a pleasant esplanade.
For those unafraid of heights, climb to the top of the museum for a 360° panoramic view. You can also book your tickets online on the museum’s website. The visit is intuitive and invites reflection on our future society. Without a doubt, the Musée des Confluences is a must-see in Lyon.
And After the Museum?
You may be wondering why you should stay at a campsite near Lyon when visiting the city and the Musée des Confluences. Here are a few good reasons!
First, the Camping des Barolles is ideally located close to Lyon. Less than 15 minutes by car and only 35 minutes by public transport, our campsite makes it easy to reach the museum and enjoy the city’s other attractions.
By staying at our campsite, you can combine relaxation in nature with cultural discoveries. After an exciting day at the museum, you’ll recharge in a peaceful green setting. Take advantage of our spacious pitches, modern facilities, and friendly atmosphere.
What’s more, our team is here to guide you and help you plan your visit to the Musée des Confluences, the city of Lyon, and even the Monts du Lyonnais. We’ll recommend the best routes, must-see events, and activities tailored to your interests. Our goal is to make your stay unforgettable and give you a truly unique experience.