Genève
Ginevra
GinebraMaison Tavel
Maison Tavel, meaning Tavel House, is the oldest house in Geneva, built in the 12th century by the Maison family. In 1334, the house was reconstructed following a devastating fire. In 1963, the house was purchased by the city of Geneva and remade into the museum of history of Geneva.
Museum
Maison Tavel has several floors as well as an underground full of various exhibits, artifacts and historical objects focusing on Geneva's city history, mostly during medieval times.
Don't miss the beautiful multimedia screening to screen and 3D map of a short movie about the history of Geneva from its early days into modern times called "Geneva, history made-to-measure". Screening audio is available in English, French and German language.
The highlight of the museum is the top floor, hosting the huge 3D map of Geneva town from 1850, when Geneva was smaller and still had fortifications.
On the ground floor is a reception area where you can ask for information. Flyers about Maison Tavel in English, French, German and Spanish, along with other printed materials, including postcards are readily available.
Free wifi on the property.
Toilets and cloakroom, resembling a cave, are in the underground. There is also an exposition of historical measurements and machine weights, as well as an impressive 6300 liter huge wooden barrel.
Location
Maison Tavel is located in the historical Old Town, easily accessible on foot from shopping street Rue du Marche and only a few meters away from St. Peter's Cathedral.
In front of the museum is a line of huge canons, which might serve as an easy to find locator.
| Address: (map) | Contacts: |
|---|---|
| Rue due Puits-St-Pierre 6, | Tel: +41 (0) 22 418 37 00 |
| 1204 Geneva, Switzerland | Opening Hours: 10:00 – 17:00 Daily |
Admission: Permanent exposition is open free of charge, admission is only for temporary expositions.
Hotels
The most classy hotel, located next to Maison Tavel in historical Geneva Old Town, is the 5 star Hotel Les Armures. Search for more hotels by clicking the box below.
