What is there to see at the Musée Savoisien?

The museum showcases collections relating to the history, traditions, heritage and culture of Savoy, from prehistoric times to the present day.

Where is the Musée Savoisien?

The Musée Savoisien is situated in the heart of Chambéry’s historic centre, close to the Castle of the Dukes of Savoy.

How long does the tour last?

You should generally allow between one hour and one and a half hours to explore the permanent collection and the temporary exhibitions.

Is the museum suitable for families?

Yes, the Musée Savoisien offers a family-friendly tour with interactive displays and themes suitable for all visitors.

Is the Musée Savoisien housed in a historic building?

Yes, the museum is housed in a former Franciscan convent which is a listed building.

Is the museum open all year round?

Yes, the Musée Savoisien is open all year round, subject to the current opening times and days.

The Savoisien Museum A journey through the history of Savoie

Housed in a former Franciscan convent in the heart of Chambéry, the Musée Savoisien invites visitors to discover the history, traditions and identity of Savoie. Through modern, immersive displays, it traces several millennia of history via remarkable collections, everyday objects and accounts that illustratethe evolution of the region and its inhabitants.

Understanding the history of Savoy

The Musée Savoisien invites visitors to explore several centuries of Savoyard history through artefacts, works of art, testimonies and stories from the region.

From prehistory to the present day, the exhibition traces the key milestones that have shaped Savoie: Alpine life, crafts, religious heritage, folk traditions, urban development and its integration into France.

As you move through the galleries, the museum also offers a deeper understanding of what defines Savoyard identity today: a region nestled between mountains, Italian influences and a living heritage. An ideal visit to discover Savoie in a different light, beyond its landscapes.

A refurbished museum in the heart of Chambéry

Following several years of renovation, the Musée Savoisien has reopened its doors in a completely redesigned setting.

The building now blends historic architecture with contemporary exhibition design in a understated and elegant setting.

Housed in a former Franciscan convent listed as a historic monument, the museum retains all the charm of Chambéry’s heritage whilst offering a modern and accessible visitor experience. Situated in the heart of the historic centre, it fits perfectly into a cultural exploration of Chambéry, amongst ancient alleyways, iconic monuments and bustling squares.

Savoyard collections, traditions and heritage

The museum houses a rich collection of artefacts relating to the history and traditions of Savoy. Costumes, paintings, furniture, everyday objects, sculptures, archives and accounts of mountain life all tellthe story of how the region has evolved over the centuries.

Collections & exhibitions

The collections are organised into six main themes:

Power and territories / People and movement / Resources and food / Housing / Beliefs / Clothing /
The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that explore various aspects of Savoyard and Alpine culture.

Planning your visit to the Musée Savoisien

The Musée Savoisien is situated in the heart of Chambéry’s historic centre, just a few minutes’ walk from the Castle of the Dukes of Savoy and Saint-François-de-Sales Cathedral.

A visit can easily be fitted into a day spent exploring Chambéry’s heritage, taking in its monuments, historic streets and a break on a terrace. Depending on the pace of your visit and the exhibitions on display, you should generally allow between one hour and an hour and a half to fully enjoy the museum.

Find out more about the museum

Another way to explore Chambéry

The Musée Savoisien is an excellent starting point for gaining an understanding of the region before setting off to explore Chambéry Montagnes. After the visit, the collections take on a whole new dimension when you come across the traditions and history highlighted in the museum whilst out and about in the streets of Chambéry, the villages or the mountains.