Pierre et Lumière
About This Museum
Tucked away in the heart of Saumur, Pierre et Lumière is an absolute marvel where the ancient art of stone carving meets pure enchantment. Instead of traditional statues on pedestals, you'll find entire French landmarks, from the intricate spires of the Château d'Usse to a breathtaking miniature Loire Valley, all meticulously sculpted from soft tuffeau stone. The dim, cavern-like setting is bathed in dramatic lighting that makes these pale masterpieces seem to glow from within. It’s a place that feels both grand and intimate, transforming cool stone into something surprisingly warm and magical.
Collection Highlights
The centerpiece is undoubtedly the stunning scale model of the region's most famous chateaux, including Chenonceau and Azay-le-Rideau, laid out as if seen from a bird's eye view. Other wonders include a detailed rendition of the Montmartre Sacré-Coeur Basilica and whimsical scenes tucked into alcoves that you might almost miss.
Visitor Information
Wear a sweater as it's kept cool and humid to preserve the sculptures—it really adds to the underground quarry atmosphere. It’s not a huge place, so you can easily soak it all in within an hour or two, making it a perfect, memorable stop on a Loire Valley tour.
Architecture & Building
The museum itself is housed within authentic, vaulted underground quarries; it's less about a built structure and more about the awe-inspiring space carved directly into the hillside.
Contact & Location
Address: Pierre et Lumière, Route de Gennes, Saint-Hilaire-Saint-Florent, Saumur, Maine-et-Loire, Pays de la Loire, France métropolitaine, 49400, France
Phone: +33 2 41 50 70 04
Website: Visit Website
