Musée du Hurepoix

Have you ever heard of the Hurepoix region? It’s right here in Palaiseau, a town just south of Paris. For a glimpse into the life of its former inhabitants, step right into the Musé du Hurepoix! Here, nestled in the 17th-century Hôtel de Brière, an architectural marvel, lies a treasure trove of history. The Société Historique de Palaiseau passionately established this museum with a noble goal – to protect the everyday objects, customs and labor tools of their ancestors to hand down to future generations. The museum boasts an array of insightful exhibits. Step into the Hall of Trades, where you’ll encounter a captivating collection of tools and techniques from long-forgotten craft professions. You’ll see tools for a basket maker, a saddler, a clockmaker, a steel engraver, and a printer. Then, explore the Hall of Craftsmanship. This hall is dedicated to the everyday tools and techniques that shaped life for the residents of the Hurepoix region. You’ll be transported back in time as you marvel at the ingenuity of the washwomen and ironers or the artistry of the milliners. Imagine the stories these objects could tell – stories of resilience, creativity, and the enduring spirit of the people of Hurepoix. Come and explore a fascinating journey into the past – a journey into the heart of the Hurepoix!