Blois, a royal city on the Loire, is home to a magical treasure that attracts young and old alike: the Maison de la Magie. This unique venue in France combines museums, shows and illusions to offer visitors an enchanting experience. Discover how magic invites itself to Blois and transforms every event into an unforgettable moment.
The six-headed hydra: guardian of a magical universe
As soon as you arrive at the Maison de la Magie, you’ll be greeted by a surprising sight. An imposing six-headed hydra sculpture, stretching 58 metres, adorns the building’s façade. Every half-hour, this mythological creature comes to life, sticking its heads out of the windows to the delight of passers-by.
This mechanical animation sets the tone for the visit to come. It symbolizes entry into a world where the impossible becomes possible, where illusion blends with reality. The hydra invites the curious to enter this magical place and discover its secrets.
Inside, the museum extends over five floors and covers an area of 2,000 m². This generous space houses a vast collection of objects and illusions, tracing the captivating history of the art of magic. Visitors can look forward to :
- Temporary exhibitions on different aspects of magic
- Interactive optical illusions
- Presentations on the evolution of magic techniques
- workshops on sleight of hand
The Maison de la Magie is more than just a museum. It is also home to the Conservatoire national des Arts magiques et de l’Illusion. This institution oversees the preservation and transmission of magical know-how, effectively ensuring the longevity of this ancestral art.
Stunning shows: magic comes to life in Blois
At the heart of the Maison de la Magie, the Salle Magicus is the perfect setting for magic shows. Shows are regularly presented here, showcasing the talents of local and international magicians. These performances transport the audience into a world where wonder is king.
Among the emblematic figures of magic in Blois is Arnaud Dalaine, director of the Maison de la Magie since 2021. This talented magician, specialized in close-up, brings his expertise to both the staging and interpretation of his shows. His modern approach to magic is helping to renew interest in this age-old art.
The town of Blois also attracts renowned magicians, as demonstrated by Boris Wild ‘s participation in the Festival de l’Héritier de l’Illusion. This not-to-be-missed event for magic enthusiasts is an opportunity to discover new trends and emerging artists.
Here’s an overview of the different types of magic you can discover in Blois:
| Type of magic | Description |
|---|---|
| Close-up | Tricks performed in close proximity to the audience |
| Grand illusions | Impressive shows with spectacular visual effects |
| Mentalism | Demonstrations of mind-reading and predictions |
| Digital magic | Using modern technology to create illusions |
In the footsteps of Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin
The Maison de la Magie pays tribute to one of the greatest magicians of all time: Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin. Born in Blois in 1805, this magician revolutionized the art of magic in the 19th century. His influence is still felt around the world today.
A unique collection of 170 objects illustrates Robert-Houdin’s many talents. On display are not only his magical creations, but also his mechanical and horological inventions. This permanent exhibition provides an insight into the genius of this versatile artist.
To extend the experience, Blois Tourist Office offers a booklet-game that lets visitors follow in Robert-Houdin’s footsteps around the town. This playful stroll invites visitors to discover Blois from a magical angle, while learning more about the life of this legendary magician.
Practical information for your magical visit
The Maison de la Magie in Blois welcomes you all year round, with opening times adapted to the seasons. To make the most of your visit, here’s some useful information:
- Open: all year round, opening times vary according to the season
- Children’s activities: ages 9 and up
- Average length of visit: 2 to 3 hours
- Accessibility: suitable for people with reduced mobility
To enhance your experience, don’t hesitate to ask about the special events organized from time to time. For example, magician and mentalist Thierry Collet recently presented a show retracing his career in magic, similarly offering an intimate look at the magician’s craft.
The Maison de la Magie de Blois is much more than just a museum. It’s a living place where magic reinvents itself every day, where illusions challenge our perception of reality. Whether you’re passionate about magic or simply curious, you’ll find plenty to feed your imagination and fill you with wonder. Don’t wait any longer to plunge into this enchanting universe where dreams become reality.