Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The Musée Médard de Lunel is a space dedicated to the history of collections, books and arts related to written heritage. He took his name from Louis Médard (1768-1841), a textile merchant and bibliophile, who formed his collection between 1814 and 1841, under the Empire and the Monarchy of July. This collection, representative of the bibliophily of the early 19th century, brings together 4,871 ancient volumes, rare and precious, classified according to the method of Jacques-Charles Brunet. Louis Médard's cabinet, preserved in the state, offers a dive into a 19th century library, with its furniture and intact works.

The collection includes illuminated medieval manuscripts, such as the Psautier de Gellone (XII century), precious bindings signed by Parisian and Montpellieran artisans, as well as tools and objects illustrating the techniques of the book (iron to gold, prints, albums). A space called Hell includes 120 censored works, including rare Protestant texts and revolutionary collections. The museum showcases these treasures through educational devices and exhibitions questioning the transmission of writing.

Located in the former Hotel Paulet, an 18th-century mansion, the museum combines a historical façade with interiors rehabilitated in a contemporary style. Beyond the books, it welcomes various artistic expressions (plastic arts, shows) to explore the evolution and future of written heritage. Its label Musée de France underlines its importance in the preservation of this exceptional heritage.

External links