Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne (Museum of Burgundian Life), Dijon

The Museum of Burgundian Life is a captivating museum housed in the beautiful cloister of the former Bernardine convent. This museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore and understand the everyday life of the people of Burgundy from the 18th to the 20th century.

As visitors enter the museum, they are transported back in time to the late 19th century, with the main floor showcasing scenes of daily life in Burgundy. Life size figures dressed in period costumes depict weddings, work activities, and family life, providing a vivid and immersive experience.

Moving to the next floor, visitors encounter a series of meticulously reconstructed shops and businesses that were prominent in Dijon from the late 18th century until World War II. Approximately ten typical establishments are showcased, including a beauty parlor, the renowned Pernot Biscuit factory (which closed in 1963 but remains an iconic subject of posters), a watchmaker, and a pharmacy. These exhibits offer detailed insights into the functioning of these businesses, and some are complemented by video footage, providing a deeper understanding of their operations.

The museum also highlights important industries in the region, such as mustard and wine. Mustard production, which originated in the Dijon area in the 13th century, is showcased through historic mustard pots and equipment, emphasizing the significance of this industry to Burgundy.

On the top floor, visitors can explore the characteristics of Burgundian life through fascinating photographs showcasing traditional crafts and work.

Since its opening in 1982, the Museum of Burgundian Life has not only provided a permanent exhibition but has also hosted special exhibitions focusing on specific aspects of Burgundian life. These temporary displays delve into various topics, offering visitors a more nuanced understanding of the region's rich cultural heritage. For instance, one exhibition highlighted the diversity of bonnet styles worn by women in different parts of Burgundy and at different stages of life.