The Museum of Art and History of Amboise
The Amboise Museum of Art and History: five centuries of history under one roof
Nestled in the heart of Amboise, the Museum of Art and History, or MAHA, is one of those places that is too often overlooked in favor of the region’s major attractions.
Yet it is an essential stop for anyone wishing to better understand the history of the town and its surrounding area.
A building that is itself a piece of history
Even before exploring the collections, the building itself deserves attention.
Built in the early 16th century by Pierre Morin, a wealthy merchant and treasurer to Louis XII, this private mansion has spanned centuries, changing its role with the times: the lordly residence of the Duke of Choiseul in the 18th century, barracks housing the garrison of Emir Abdelkader between 1848 and 1852, and then the town hall from 1855 onwards.
Classified as a Historical Monument in 1880, it has housed the museum in its current form since 1970. A place steeped in history, therefore, even before you step inside.
Collections that tell the story of Amboise
The museum’s layout is organized around several themed rooms, each offering a different perspective on local history.
Throughout the exhibits, visitors will encounter royal autographs of Charles VIII, Francis I, and Louis XII, highlighting the historical significance of Amboise as a center of power. One room is entirely dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci, notably featuring a composition by Ménageot depicting the master’s death. Another pays homage to the Château de Chanteloup and its patron, the Duke of Choiseul, through Aubusson tapestries, portraits, and maps of this now-vanished estate.
The museum also houses a fine collection of paintings depicting Amboise at various periods, sculptures including the famous 16th-century Virgin of the Belfry, as well as objects and memorabilia related to local life, among them the renowned Pezon et Michel fishing rods that Ernest Hemingway tested and described as the “Rolls-Royce of fishing rods.” Part of the collections from the former Postal Museum have also found a place there, adding an extra dimension to this panorama of Amboise’s memory.
Tours for all profiles
The museum offers several ways to explore its collections, depending on your interests. A fun guided tour for children, featuring quizzes about the artworks, allows younger visitors to engage with the museum interactively.
A heritage trail and a selection of the museum’s ten masterpieces are also available for those who prefer a more focused introduction.
Practical Information
The Amboise Museum of Art and History is located on Rue François 1er, in the heart of Amboise town center. Admission is free and no reservation is required.
It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 2 pm to 6 pm from April 4th to September 17th (please refer to the City of Amboise website for the rest of the year).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I allow for the visit?
Allow approximately 45 minutes for a complete tour of the museum.
What are the opening hours?
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 2 pm to 6 pm, from April 4th to September 17th. For opening hours outside of this period, please visit the City of Amboise website.
What is the admission price?
Admission is completely free and no reservation is required.
Is the museum accessible to people with reduced mobility?
The museum does not have accessible facilities for people with reduced mobility.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not allowed in the museum.
In which languages is the tour available?
The museum welcomes visitors in French, English, German, Spanish, Italian, and Dutch.
How do I get to the museum?
The museum is located on rue François 1er, in the heart of Amboise, a few minutes’ walk from the castle.
