Museum of Rural Heritage

Located in the Crest-Cherel fortified manor, the museum was built between the 13th and 16th centuries. You will discover the daily local, rural, and mountain life of the inhabitants of Ugine and the Val d'Arly from the late 19th to the early 20th century.
Explore our Collections Discover over 1,500 period objects across 12 themed rooms at your own pace. Enjoy an interactive experience thanks to our newly installed videos and touchscreens. Special events, workshops, and activities are organized throughout the summer season.

A Rich History Built between the 13th and 16th centuries, the Crest-Cherel Castle originally served to protect Ugine and its surroundings from enemy invasions. Over time, it lost its defensive role, becoming a private residence before later serving as a primary school!

But how did this fortified manor become a museum? Until the early 20th century, Ugine was primarily an agricultural community, boasting over 1,300 hectares of forest. In 1984, the municipality restored the castle to preserve its heritage and showcase the traditions of the past. Since then, the castle walls have housed 1,500 objects that bear witness to the lives of Ugine's farmers of yesteryear.
For Kids: The museum offers a FREE discovery game, tailored to different age groups.

The Experience: Step back in time and explore ancient customs, local gastronomy, and traditional clothing.

Guided Tours: This year, 4 special guided tours are available in July and August to explore the collections in depth.