Treasures to discover at the Musée Ernest Cognacq

Permanent Exhibitions

The Musée Ernest Cognacq houses permanent collections that tell the rich and varied story of the island of Ré. Visitors can admire :

• Archaeological objects Artefacts dating from prehistoric to Gallo-Roman times.
• Paintings and sculptures Works by local and regional artists capturing the beauty of the Ile de Ré.
• Historical documents Archives and documents illustrating the social and economic evolution of the island.

Temporary Exhibitions

In addition to its permanent collections, the museum regularly organizes temporary exhibitions exploring various cultural and historical themes. These exhibitions offer a fresh perspective and attract a wide audience.

Jardin des Simples

The "jardin des simples" is a unique part of the museum, where traditional medicinal and aromatic plants are cultivated. This garden allows visitors to discover the ancient uses of plants and their importance in the daily lives of the island's inhabitants.

Activities and Events at the Musée Ernest Cognacq

Workshops and Events

The museum offers a variety of workshops and activities for all ages:

• Children's workshops Educational and entertaining activities for young visitors.
• Guided tours Experienced guides share their knowledge of the museum's history and collections.
• Conferences and seminars Educational events on subjects related to the history and culture of the Ile de Ré.

Special Events

The Musée Ernest Cognacq also organizes special events throughout the year, such as themed exhibitions, cultural evenings and festivals. These events offer unique and enriching experiences.

Who is Ernest Cognacq?

Ernest Cognacq short biography

Ernest Cognacq (1839-1901) was a French businessman and founder of the Parisian department store La Samaritaine. He was born in Saint-Martin-de-Ré on the island of Ré, where he spent his childhood.

Its link with the Ile de Ré:

• Birth and childhood: Ernest Cognacq was born in Saint-Martin-de-Ré on April 23, 1839. He spent his childhood on the island, where his father was a baker.
• Back to basics: Cognacq always retained a deep attachment to his native island. He returned regularly on vacation and even bought a property in Ars-en-Ré.
• Sponsorship: In 1906, Cognacq acquired the collections of a local scholar by the name of Théodore Phelippot as a gift to his native Saint-Martin-de-Ré. They then formed the collection of the Musée Municipal Ernest-Cognacq, founded in 1907. Housed in the former Hôtel des Gouverneurs de l'île de Ré, this museum presents collections of archaeology, ethnography and local history.

Tribute:

• A street in Saint-Martin-de-Ré bears his name.
• A bust of Ernest Cognacq can be seen in front of the museum that bears his name.
• A museum bears his name

Ernest Cognacq is an important figure in the history of the Ile de Ré. His success as a businessman enabled him to share his generosity with his native commune.

Practical information

Opening hours

The Musée Ernest Cognacq is open all year round, with opening times varying according to the season:

• High season (July-August) Open daily from 10am to 7pm.
• Low season (September-June) Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm. Closed on Mondays.

Visit rates

Admission to the museum is as follows:

• Adults : 6€
• Children (ages 7-17) : 3€
• Under 7 Free of charge
• Reduced rate 4 (students, unemployed, seniors)

From combined tickets are also available to access other Ile de Ré attractions at reduced rates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where is the Musée Ernest Cognacq located?
The Musée Ernest Cognacq is located in Saint-Martin-de-Ré, on the Ile de Ré in France.

What are the museum's opening hours?
In high season, the museum is open daily from 10am to 7pm. In low season, it's open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm.

How much does admission cost for adults?
Admission for adults is €6.

Are there any activities for children at the museum?
Yes, the museum offers workshops and educational activities specially designed for children.

Does the museum organize temporary exhibitions?
Yes, in addition to the permanent collections, the museum regularly organizes temporary exhibitions on various cultural and historical themes.

June 1 to September 22, 2024:

• Rémi Polack: "Vent!“**

Under the theme of wind, the 13th Festival d'Arts Actuels highlights the work of guest artist Rémi Polack. His work is essentially centered on aerial dynamics and uses light, airy materials such as paper, fabric and plastic. The exhibition features a selection of the artist's works, including sculptures, installations and videos.

How to get to the museum from La Rochelle
The museum is accessible by car via the Ile de Ré bridge, by bus or by bike along the cycle paths.

Conclusion

The Musée Ernest Cognacq is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the island of Ré. Its rich heritage, captivating exhibits and diverse activities make it a place of interest for history and culture buffs. Plan your visit and immerse yourself in the fascinating past of this unique island.