Start of collections 1987 (≈ 1987)
Initial constitution of the museum fund.
janvier 2014
Virtual museum
Virtual museum janvier 2014 (≈ 2014)
Partial presentation of online collections.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Origin and history
The Dombes de Villars-les-Dombes Museum is an establishment dedicated to the history and specificities of the Dombes natural region, located in the Ain department. Located in Villars-les-Dombes, it benefits from the label Musée de France, guaranteeing the quality of its collections and its mediation. His exhibitions explore the historical balance between nature and human activities, notably through the exploitation of ponds, agriculture, hunting and horse breeding, reflecting ancestral environmental management.
The museum's collections began to form in 1987, although the museum project has been in the foreground for several years. In 2014, some of the objects were presented virtually, pending the definitive opening of the physical museum. This is envisaged near the Villars-les-Dombes Bird Park, an emblematic site of the region, highlighting the link between natural and cultural heritage.
The museum's fonds illustrates how the geographical and ecological constraints of the Dombes have been transformed into assets for local development. Four main themes structure its museography: pond management (water and dry), agricultural practices, water game hunting, and equine breeding associated with beef production. These axes highlight a territorial identity marked by constant interaction between man and his environment.
According to available sources, the museum is located at 34 rue du Général Delestraint in Villars-les-Dombes, although approximate GPS coordinates suggest an alternative address on Rue de l'Industrie. This geographical impreciseness may reflect changes in the project or in the SEO errors. However, the official website and telephone contacts (04 74 32 10 60) provide up-to-date information on its activities and schedules.