The Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin, in Blois, is a museum specializing in illusion and conjuring.
It has its origins in a private museum opened in Blois in the 1960s by the grandson of Robert Houdin (1805-1871), a native of the city, considered the most famous French illusionist of the 19th century. The collection was then bequeathed to the municipality which enriched it and exhibited it at the castle from 1985 to 1991 before this House of Magic was inaugurated in 1998, housed in a 19th century bourgeois building facing the castle.
This is the only place in Europe where collections linked to the art of conjuring are exhibited while programming shows which vary regularly.
While the facade itself is spectacular (the six heads of a dragon emerging from the windows), the 2000 m² exhibition presents the history of the art of magic, the life of Robert Houdin, and objects and documents more or less linked to all facets of illusionism and magic. The whole thing is intended to be educational and entertaining.
The House is labeled Museum of France and its visit appeals to all audiences. We perceive a part of the heritage as well as the history of the show.
Opening dates and times:
Every day from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on the following dates:
- From March 30 to April 1.
- From April 6 to September 1.
- From September 2 to 29 (weekends only).
- All Saints' Day holidays (from October 19 to November 3).
- Christmas holidays (from December 21 to January 5).
Prices:
- Full price: €13.
- Reduced rate of €10 granted to students, job seekers, adults from large families and teachers, upon presentation of proof at the ticket office.
- Child from 6 to 17 years old: €7.
- Free for children under 6 years old.
