Cavalry Museum
About This Museum
Tucked away in the historic cavalry school of Saumur, this museum is a living tribute to the horse and rider, chronicling their martial bond from the age of chivalry to modern armored vehicles. You don't just see history here; you hear the faint jingle of harnesses and almost smell the leather and oil. It’s a place that feels more like an active garrison than a static display, pulsing with the legacy of France's legendary horsemen. The collection masterfully guides you through centuries of warfare, where gleaming cuirasses stand not far from the first rickety motorcycles used for reconnaissance.
Collection Highlights
Look for the stunning display of ornate 17th-century armored horse bardings and the poignant personal letters from a WWI cavalryman. The evolution of the saber is laid out in a breathtaking wall of steel, while a fully restored WW2 Panhard armored car dominates one room with its silent, hulking presence.
Visitor Information
It's located right in the heart of Saumur, easy to spot by its classic military academy facade. Give yourself a good two hours to do it justice, and keep an ear out for the occasional clip-clop of hooves from training sessions in the nearby courtyards.
Architecture & Building
Housed within the stately, sand-colored stone buildings of the École de Cavalerie, its architecture is pure 18th-century French military elegance—formal, imposing, and built around a series of grand courtyards and arched passageways.
Contact & Location
Address: Place Charles de Foucauld, Saumur, Maine-et-Loire, Pays de la Loire, France métropolitaine, 49400, France
Phone: +33 2 41 83 69 23
Website: Visit Website
