Maison Tavel

The museum’s centrepiece is the Magnin relief, a large scale model of Geneva before its fortifications were demolished in 1850. It lets you explore the old fortified city in detail, street by street.

The collections come from Geneva’s public holdings. Engravings, paintings, maps, models, furniture and various objects trace the history of the city and its inhabitants from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. The museum devotes a section to the Escalade, a battle regarded as foundational to Genevan identity and celebrated every year in December.

The building itself is part of the visit. You can admire its original architectural features : turrets, sculpted façade and vaulted cellars, which round off the experience. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions on particular aspects of Geneva’s history.

Getting there : the house is located at 6 Rue du Puits-Saint-Pierre, a stone’s throw from St. Pierre Cathedral, in the Old Town.

On site : the museum spans six levels, from the vaulted cellars to the upper floors.

Who it’s for : the permanent collections appeal to anyone interested in the history of Geneva and its everyday life.

Start by admiring the façade and turrets from the street before heading inside to explore the collections.

The visit, and the Magnin relief in particular, makes an excellent introduction to Geneva : ideally, come here before exploring the Old Town on foot, so you can then recognise the layout of the old city.

• The Archaeological Site of St. Pierre Cathedral in Geneva displays the remains of churches dating back to the late 4th century.
• Maison Rousseau Littérature, the birthplace of Jean-Jacques Rousseau, is dedicated to his work and to literature.
• The Banc de la Treille, facing the Parc des Bastions, offers a view over the city and the mountains.