Musée des minéraux de Sorbonne Université

About the museum

The Sorbonne’s mineral collection was born shortly after the university’s chair of mineralogy was created, on April 14, 1809. It was first used for teaching and research. The first documented purchase dates from 1823, when François Sulpice Beudant, holder of the chair, acquired more than a thousand specimens.

The collection then grew through major acquisitions. In 1847, Gabriel Delafosse obtained the collection of Louis Jurine, with more than four thousand minerals, with the support of the Minister of Public Instruction. In the 1950s, Colonel Vésigné bequeathed several thousand pieces to the university.

Since 1970, part of the collection has been on display on the Jussieu campus, following a project led by Jean Wyart, director of the mineralogy and crystallography laboratory. Today the holdings comprise more than 16,000 minerals belonging to about 1,700 species, a selection of which is visible on the permanent route. The museum also offers an annual exhibition and guided tours.

Highlights

• One of the oldest university collections in France
• More than 16,000 minerals, about 1,700 species
• Jurine collection and Vésigné bequest
• Free guided tour every month for individual visitors
• Activity booklet for children

Permanent exhibition

• Collection permanente de minéraux – Route presenting a selection of minerals from the university collection, with explanations of their formation and diversity.

Founded

1970

Operated by

Sorbonne Université

Admission & discounts

The ticket is valid for the permanent exhibition and the temporary exhibition. Admission is also free for members of the association A.M.I.S., holders of a press card or ICOM card, and staff and students of Sorbonne Université. Payment in cash or by check only; bank cards are not accepted.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator
• Accessible restroom
• 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

Access via the elevator in Tower 14; the museum advises calling the front desk before the visit to arrange assistance. Seats are available along the route.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide

Activity booklet for young visitors. During Parisian school holidays, free visits and workshops for ages 5 to 12 on Tuesdays from 14:00 to 15:00, registration by e-mail.

Getting there & parking

The museum is on the Pierre et Marie Curie campus, between Towers 24 and 25. Entrance via Place Jussieu, near amphitheater 25, to the left of the large staircase.

Amenities & dining

• Museum shop

Shop; payment in cash or by check only.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit