The Labenche museum of Brive-la-Gaillarde was created in 1878 at the initiative of the Scientific, Historical and Archaeological Society of Corrèze which had been founded some time earlier and thus wanted to group together the objects collected during excavations or donated by its various members.
From 1879, a room in the town hall was made available to house the new museum. It was then transferred to larger premises in 1883, within the former convent of the Poor Clares (which now houses the municipal archives) and becomes a municipal establishment.
The collections are then made up of natural science specimens, coins, seals, paintings and archaeological pieces. The whole was subsequently expanded thanks to donations, bequests and sales from individuals but also thanks to deposits made by the State.
At the turn of the 1980s, while the collection was further enriched, particularly in archeology and with an exceptional set of Aubusson and Mortlake (England) tapestries, most of which were woven in the 17th century, it was decided to relocate the museum to a larger site. After renovation of the Hôtel Labenche (Renaissance-style building enlarged in the 19th century, which became a seminary and then owned by the city after 1905), the museum changed its name and reopened in 1989.
It presents a number of collections dedicated to the history of the city and the region dealing with various themes (archeology, fine arts, tapestries, musical instruments, popular traditions, etc.).
In addition, the establishment offers temporary exhibitions in the Saint-Liberal chapel (free entry).
In addition to free and guided tours, the museum offers conferences and organizes "unusual" tours.
Open every day except Tuesday and January 1, May 1, November 1 and December 25. Price: 3 and 5 euros (free the first Sunday of the month). Information on +33 5 55 18 17 70.