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Origin and history

The National Customs Museum is a museum of art and history inaugurated in 1984 in the enclosure of the Bordeaux Customs Hotel. It presents the evolution of French customs, from the modern era to the present, through various collections and temporary exhibitions. Unique in France, it combines historical heritage and cultural programming, in connection with local and national events. The museum has been closed for renovation since December 2023 and will reopen in May 2025 with a scenography modernized by architect Isabelle Fourcade.

The Hotel des Fermes du Roi, built between 1735 and 1738 for the Ferme Générale (ancestor of customs under the Old Regime), still houses the Interregional Directorate of Customs of New Aquitaine. Ranked a historic monument for its facades, courtyard and woodwork, the classical style building was designed by Jacques Gabriel. His pediments, carved by Jacques Verberckt, represent Mercury promoting the Garonne and Minerve trade protecting the Arts. The inner courtyard, where customs clearance was carried out, is now home to the museum's collections.

The museum preserves nearly 13,500 items, including customs archives (records, tariffs, case law) from the 18th to the 20th century, as well as a documentation centre enriched by payments from customs offices and private donations. Although partially representative, these archives offer a unique insight into the customs administration and its role in French economic history. The media library complements these resources with academic publications and specialized catalogues.

Closed for work since 2023, the museum will be officially reopened on 4 September 2025 by Amélie de Montchalin, Minister for Public Accounts. The renovation, centered on an interactive tour experience, is part of a desire to enhance this Bordeaux heritage, a witness of trade and tax exchanges since the 18th century.

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