Little Historians Can Learn About France’s Monuments

France’s national monuments invite youngsters to have fun in an historic setting.

Get ready for an unforgettable experience for the whole family at some of France’s most beautiful monuments. For one weekend in October, the Centre des monuments nationaux (CMN) will host the 26th edition of Monument Jeu d’Enfant, especially designed to entertain the littlest of historians. Around 59 national monuments across France take fun very seriously by offering specially conceived activities for budding history buffs aged five to 12, and it’s a wonderful excuse for adults to rediscover these treasures with childlike wonder.

Visitors of all ages will be able to become a detective for a day and discover the secrets of the mysterious clock in Besançon Cathedral; get ready for the masked ball given by the Count and Countess of Rohan-Chabot at the Château de la Motte-Tilly; or learn about arts and crafts at the châteaux of Villeneuve-Lembron and Parentignat, workshops in cabinet making and marquetry. At the stunning Hôtel de la Marine, tiny hands can create their own scented souvenir in a chemistry workshop as part of an olfactory tour, or test their mettle in the Middle Ages at Thoronet Abbey in an escape game. Take your pick among a huge selection of theatrical performances, storytelling tours, treasure hunts and other fun ways to introduce the next generation to France’s rich heritage. The CMN cares for the conservation, restoration and operation of more than 100 historic monuments and gardens. They are found in the heart of cities and the wilds of the countryside, and include archaeological and prehistoric sites, mediaeval abbeys, fortified castles, modern villas, cathedral towers and so much more.

October 19-20

From France Today Magazine