European Night of Museums of Valognes

Valognes Museums at Night

Every third Saturday of May, the town of Valognes, nicknamed the "Norman Versailles" for its elegant private mansions, participates in the European Night of Museums. This national event offers an opportunity to discover the museums and heritage of this historic town in Cotentin for free in the evening.

The Regional Museum of Cider and Calvados

The regional museum of cider and calvados, housed in the Maison du Grand Quartier, a listed 15th-century building, is one of the jewels of Valognes' museum heritage. It preserves and presents a representative collection of objects and tools related to cider production, from apple harvesting to the consumption of the drink. During the Night of Museums, guided tours and events allow visitors to immerse themselves in the world of Norman cider.

The Hôtel de Beaumont

The Hôtel de Beaumont, a magnificent 18th-century aristocratic residence, is another emblematic site in Valognes. Its richly decorated rooms, monumental staircases, and French gardens bear witness to the art of living of the Norman aristocracy during the Age of Enlightenment. The Night of Museums allows you to discover this architectural gem in nocturnal light, revealing all its splendor.

Events and Guided Tours

The program for the Night of Museums in Valognes includes themed guided tours, events for families, workshops, and sometimes cider and calvados tastings. The nocturnal discovery of these historic sites offers a different and more intimate perspective than usual daytime visits.

Heritage to Preserve

The museums of Valognes face conservation and renovation challenges. The regional cider museum has experienced periods of closure for roof repair work. The Night of Museums is a special time to raise public awareness about the importance of preserving this heritage and to attract new visitors to these cultural institutions.