The Musée des Arts et Métiers is one of the oldest technical and industrial museums in the world, established in 1794 by Abbot Grégoire as part of the Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers. Set in the historic premises of the former Saint-Martin-des-Champs monastery, this museum houses a collection of over 80,000 items, of which 2,400 are on display. These include notable artifacts such as Pascal’s calculating machine, the Foucault pendulum, Blériot’s pioneering aircraft, and even a reduced version of the Statue of Liberty.

The museum is divided into seven thematic collections: Scientific Instruments, Materials, Energy, Mechanics, Construction, Communication, and Transport. Each of these showcases humanity’s technological advancements, from early engineering marvels to more contemporary achievements. Noteworthy exhibits include the original Foucault pendulum, which famously demonstrated Earth's rotation, and the Cugnot steam vehicle, considered the first motorized vehicle.

For families, the museum is especially enjoyable as it offers child-friendly activities, quizzes, and workshops that delve into themes such as transport, photography, and electricity. On the first Sunday of each month and every Thursday evening, the museum opens its doors to all visitors free of charge. In addition to its permanent collection, temporary exhibitions regularly enrich the experience, ensuring something new for each visit.

The museum is not just about observation but also interaction. Guided tours and scientific workshops provide deeper insights, while the unique design of the nearby Arts-et-Métiers metro station, inspired by Jules Verne’s submarine Nautilus, adds to the thematic atmosphere. A visit to this museum is a journey through centuries of scientific endeavor, illustrating the brilliance and creativity of human innovation.