The Musée de la magie in Blois offers a unique experience for visitors with a passion for illusions and prestidigitation tricks. Located in the heart of the city, this space dedicated to the art of magic offers a fascinating immersion into the world of the greatest magicians. Discover the well-kept secrets and marvel at the hidden treasures.
The six-headed hydra: guardian of a magical kingdom
As soon as you arrive at the Musée de la Magie de Blois, you’ll be greeted by a surprising sight. An imposing six-headed hydra adorns the building’s façade, coming to life every half-hour to the extreme delight of passers-by. This mythological creature sets the tone for the visit to come, blending magic, legend and illusion.
Once inside, you’ll discover a veritable palace of wonders, spanning 5 floors and 2,000 m² of exhibition space. The museum traces the fascinating history of magic through the ages, offering visitors an immersive, interactive experience. The new, evolving scenography showcases no fewer than 700 objects and works linked to the world of prestidigitation.
Here’s an overview of the main thematic rooms you’ll be able to examine:
- The Rotunda
- The Hall of Grand Illusions
- The Magic Attic
- The Magicians’ Salon
Each area is full of surprises, with optical illusions, distorting mirrors and interactive games that are sure to amaze. Animations and magic tricks performed by professional magicians add a lively dimension to your visit, plunging you right into the heart of the action.
A journey through time at the conservatoire national des arts magiques
The Musée de la Magique in Blois is home to the Conservatoire National des Arts Magiques et de l’Illusion. This prestigious institution preserves and passes on the techniques and secrets of history’s greatest illusionists. Among the treasures on display, the Robert-Houdin collection occupies pride of place.
Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin, considered the father of modern magic, was born in Blois in 1805. His contribution to the art of illusion is inestimable, and the museum pays tribute to him with an exceptional collection of 170 objects that once belonged to him. Discover the ingenious inventions and fascinating automata of this pioneer of prestidigitation.
The following table shows some of Robert-Houdin’s major innovations on display at the museum:
| Invention | Description | Year |
|---|---|---|
| The marvelous orange tree | Automaton producing flowers and fruit | 1845 |
| Ethereal suspension | Illusion of levitation | 1847 |
| The unbreakable safe | Demonstration of magic locksmithing | 1848 |
Shows and entertainment: magic comes to life
The Musée de la Magie de Blois doesn’t just exhibit objects; it also puts on daily shows in its Grand Théâtre. These 30-minute performances take place 3-4 times a day, and offer visitors the chance to see professional magicians at work.
During the school vacations, the museum redoubles its efforts to enchant young and old alike. Special programming includes :
- Event shows
- Children’s workshops
- Magic classes
- Themed entertainment
For younger visitors, the museum can even organize magical birthdays, an unforgettable experience for apprentice sorcerers. The museum store lets visitors extend the experience at home, with a selection of magic books and do-it-yourself tricks.
Practical information for your visit to the kingdom of illusion
To make the most of your visit to the Musée de la magie de Blois, here’s some essential information to remember:
Opening hours: The museum is open every day during the Christmas vacations, with the exception of December 25 and January 1. Opening hours are 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., with early closing at 5:00 p.m. on December 24 and 31.
Shows: Two performances take place daily at 11.15am and 2.45pm. Online reservations are highly recommended to secure a seat. Plan to arrive at least one hour before the show to visit the exhibition. Please note that late arrivals will not be admitted.
Admission Admission is €13 for adults, €10 for concessions and €7 for children. Admission is free for children under 6. A combined visit with the Château de Blois is also available for a more complete experience.
Opening times: The museum is open seasonally, notably on Easter weekends, from April to September, and during the All Saints’ and Christmas vacations.
By following these tips, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable, magical experience in the heart of Blois. Let yourself be transported into a world where the impossible becomes possible, where the secrets of the greatest illusionists are revealed to you, and where magic works at every moment.