La Tour Prisonnière et les Souterrains

This museum traces the history and urban development of Cusset in one of the last vestiges of the fortifications built in the 15th century at the request of Louis XI (ISMH 1996).
Built between 1476 and 1483, this artillery tower was spared destruction in modern times thanks to its use as a prison until 1957. In modern times, the tower has played an important role, with historical accounts of Napoleon III's visit at the end of the 19th century. Today, the tower houses the town's museum (since 1980), offering visitors the chance to discover the history of Cusset through its lapidary collections, as well as paintings, sculptures and engravings. An exhibition of medieval artillery (owned by the town of Montluçon) highlights the 15th century, when the town was an influential religious center under the protection of the King of France.

The self-guided tour of the museum is combined with a guided tour of the underground passages (the starting point for the guided tours is at the museum reception desk).