Maison natale de Descartes
Museum complex in Descartes in the philosopher's birthplace, bringing together the René Descartes, René Boylesve and Gustave Trouvé museums.
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About the museum
The commune of Descartes, in Touraine, is the birthplace of the philosopher and mathematician René Descartes (1596–1650). His birth house, a 16th-century building, now houses a museum devoted to his childhood, life and thought.
The Espace Muséal brings together three museums on the same street, dedicated to figures born in or linked to the commune: René Descartes; the writer and academician René Boylesve (1867–1926), whose museum occupies a 19th-century house; and the engineer and inventor Gustave Trouvé (1839–1902). A single ticket gives access to all three museums, both gardens and the current temporary exhibition.
The route invites visitors to follow the evolution of ideas and techniques through these three figures. A digital museum space, Micro-Folie, also offers reproductions of major paintings and sculptures. The town organizes lectures, events and workshops during opening periods.
Highlights
- René Descartes' birth house, a 16th-century building
- Three museums on one ticket: Descartes, Boylesve and Trouvé
- Two gardens and a temporary exhibition
- Micro-Folie digital museum
- Workshops for children in the summer season
- Operated by
- Ville de Descartes
Admission & discounts
| Adults | €6 |
|---|---|
| Reduced | €3Visitors with reduced mobility accompanied by a companion, students, recipients of minimum social benefits (on proof) |
| Children & teens | freefree up to age 17 · Free for under-18s |
| Students & apprentices | €3Reduced rate on proof |
| Groups (10+ people) | €4 per personAdult groups |
| Temporary exhibition only | €2 |
| Workshops and activities | €3 |
The single ticket gives access to the three museums, the two gardens and the temporary exhibition.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible: no information
- Elevator: no information
- Accessible restroom: no information
- Accessible parking: no information
- Service dogs welcome: no information
- Tactile models & exhibits: no information
- Sign language tours: no information
- Easy-to-read materials: no information
- Audio description: no information
A reduced rate is available for visitors with reduced mobility and their companion; the town's website gives no further information on accessibility.
Kids & families
| Kids’ admission | free up to age 17 |
|---|
- Family tours & workshops
Free admission for under-18s. Children's workshops during the summer season, at €3.
Getting there & parking
By car
Parking available
Blaise Pascal parking lot, 21 rue Descartes (former tourist office).
Amenities & dining
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| Good to know | Guided tour of the René Descartes museum on Saturdays at 10:30. Thematic lectures, events and educational workshops during opening periods. |
