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Cantonal Museum of Archaeology and History

The Cantonal Museum of Archaeology and History (MCAH) is located in the Palais de Rumine in Lausanne, Switzerland. It presents permanent collections covering prehistory, history, and coins and medals, tracing the archaeology and history of the canton of Vaud from the end of the Palaeolithic to the present day. The museum also manages archaeological, historical and ethnographic collections of the State of Vaud, including a library, archives and a conservation-restoration laboratory. It regularly hosts changing temporary exhibitions.

Families and Kids

The museum offers workshops and activity booklets for children and families, both on site and to do at home, covering themes such as prehistory, mythology and ancient coins. Activities for schools and crèches are also offered during the school year, including an activity for children under 4 years old.

Information

  • Visit duration: 90min
  • Barrier free: No
  • For rainy days: Yes
  • Free entrance: Yes (partly)
  • Price range: $
  • Topic: History
    • Guided tours: Yes
    • Workshops: Yes
    • Children experience: Child friendly
    • Children age group: 3-6, 6-12, 12-18
    • Children activities: Workshops, Interactive exhibits, Tours and demonstrations

Opening hours

The exhibition rooms are open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00, closed on Mondays.
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
10:00-17:00
Wednesday
10:00-17:00
Thursday
10:00-17:00
Friday
10:00-17:00
Saturday
10:00-17:00
Sunday
10:00-17:00

Admission fees

8 CHF
Adult admission
5 CHF
Reduced price for temporary exhibitions
0 CHF
Free for visitors up to 25 years old for temporary exhibitions
0 CHF
Free on the first Saturday of the month for temporary exhibitions

Contact

Webpage
mcah.ch
Address
Place de la Riponne 6, 1005 Lausanne

Access

Nearby stops

  • Lausanne, Valentin400 meters walking distance

Travel duration

From
Travel time
Lausanne
10m
Genève
1h 0m
Martigny
1h 5m
Sion
1h 20m
Bern
1h 22m

FAQ

  • Is the permanent exhibition free of charge?
    Yes, the permanent exhibitions are free of charge. Only the temporary exhibitions are paid, with a reduced price and free admission for visitors up to 25 years old and on the first Saturday of the month.
  • Are the exhibition rooms accessible to people with reduced mobility?
    The exhibition rooms are partially accessible to people with reduced mobility.
  • Can I visit the museum library?
    The museum library is open to the public but only by appointment, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 17:00. It is closed from 27 July to 14 August.
  • Are guided tours of the permanent exhibitions available?
    Yes, guided tours of the permanent exhibitions are available on request, with several options covering the prehistory, history and coins and medals rooms. Reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance.
  • Are there activities for children and families?
    Yes, the museum offers workshops and activity booklets for children and families, both on site and to do at home, covering themes such as prehistory, mythology and ancient coins. Activities for schools and crèches are also offered during the school year.

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