Bordeaux Natural History Museum, Bordeaux

Opened in 1811, Bordeaux's Natural History Museum is one of the oldest of its kind in France. Set in a stunning private mansion adjoining the Le Jardin Public , the Musee d'Histoire Naturelle hosts a zoological collection of specimens from all over the world. It features present-day species, including those at risk of extinction, belonging to the mammal, bird, reptile and fish families, as well as crustaceans, mollusks and insects. Considerable space is dedicated to local wildlife and to paleontology, with an impressive collection of fossils. The library is open to researchers and the shop offers copies of the museum's publications among other works.