La Cité Nature : Discovering the Earth, for Young and Old in Arras

Cité Nature is a one-of-a-kind science museum offering a unique, immersive experience for visitors of all ages.
With its interactive exhibits, live demonstrations and breathtaking displays, the museum is a must-see destination for anyone interested in learning more about the natural world and the role of science in shaping our understanding of it.

The different sections of Cité Nature: a journey through the wonders of the natural world

Cité Nature features a multitude of sections offering visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about different aspects of the natural world. From biodiversity exhibits to weather demonstrations, each section offers a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Biodiversity: a spectrum of life on Earth

The biodiversity section is one of Cité Nature‘s most popular. It features a variety of insects, plants and animals from around the world. Visitors can observe the different species up close and learn about the habitats and ecosystems that support them. This section also highlights the importance of conserving and preserving biodiversity to ensure a sustainable future for our planet.

Plants and insects at Cité Nature d’Arras

Geology: the secrets of the Earth

The geology section allows visitors to discover the processes that have shaped our planet over the millennia. Visitors can learn about the formation of mountains, volcanoes and fossils, as well as the different types of rocks and minerals that make up the Earth’s crust. This section offers an in-depth understanding of the Earth’s history and the evolution of its landscapes.

Oceanography: exploring the deep

The oceanography section of Cité Nature immerses visitors in the mysterious and fascinating world of the oceans.
Here, visitors can learn more about marine creatures, underwater ecosystems and the ocean currents that influence climate and weather. Interactive exhibits and aquariums allow visitors to get up close and personal with marine species and understand the importance of ocean conservation to the health of our planet.

Botany: the plant world

Cité Nature’s botanical exhibition offers a fascinating insight into the world of plants. Visitors can explore a variety of gardens and greenhouses featuring local and exotic plants. As well as showcasing the diversity of plant species, this section also teaches visitors about the importance of plants to life on Earth, as sources of food, oxygen and habitat for many other species.

Weather and climate phenomena

The weather and climate phenomena presented by Cité Nature give visitors a better understanding of the forces that influence our planet’s weather and climate. Through interactive exhibits and live demonstrations, visitors can observe the processes that lead to the formation of storms, thunderstorms and other weather phenomena. This section also highlights the impacts of climate change and the challenges we face in protecting our environment and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

Ecology and sustainable development

At the heart of the Cité Nature project in Arras, ecology and sustainable development focus on the relationship between man and the environment, and the impact of our actions on the natural world. Exhibits and interactive activities give visitors a better understanding of the environmental issues facing our planet, such as deforestation, pollution and habitat loss. What’s more, this section encourages visitors to think about possible solutions for a more sustainable, environmentally-friendly way of life.

The evolution of our technologies: a journey through time

The Evolution of our Technologies exhibition at Cité Nature takes visitors back in time to discover how technological advances have shaped our world through the ages. From the first stone tools used by our prehistoric ancestors to today’s cutting-edge technological innovations, this exhibition offers a fascinating insight into the development of technology and its impact on our daily lives.

The beginnings of technology

At the start of the exhibition, visitors are invited to explore the first technologies developed by mankind, including stone tools and the first worked metals. Visitors can learn how our ancestors used these rudimentary tools to hunt, feed and protect themselves, laying the foundations for modern technology.

Antiquity and the Middle Ages

Moving through the exhibition, visitors can discover technologies developed during Antiquity and the Middle Ages, such as irrigation systems, war machines and the first clocks. These innovations enabled ancient civilizations to prosper and develop empires, while highlighting human ingenuity and our ability to solve complex problems using technology.

The industrial revolution

The Industrial Revolution marked a major turning point in the evolution of technology. During this period, visitors can discover the innovations that changed the world, such as steam engines, locomotives and mechanical looms. This era was marked by a technological boom that transformed our society from a predominantly agrarian economy to an industrial and urban one.

Example of farm equipment from the Industrial Revolution

The 20th century and beyond

Finally, the exhibition takes us into the modern world, where information and communication technologies have profoundly transformed the way we live, work and play. Visitors can discover the evolution of materials in relation to the growth of the agricultural sector in Arras. In addition, this part of the exhibition highlights emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics and renewable energies, which promise to shape our future even more dramatically.

Impact and reflection

The exhibition on the evolution of our technologies at Cité Nature invites visitors to reflect on the impact of these advances on our society and our environment. By exploring the different stages of technological development, visitors are encouraged to consider the positive and negative consequences of these innovations, as well as to reflect on their impact on the environment.

Temporary exhibitions and interactivity: a fun, educational experience for everyone

In addition to its permanent exhibitions, Cité Nature regularly hosts temporary exhibitions exploring a wide range of topics related to science and nature. Designed to be both interactive and engaging, these exhibitions offer visitors the chance to discover science in action and immerse themselves in new experiences.

The interactive nature of temporary exhibitions

These exhibits are specially designed to encourage visitor interaction and active participation.
They often include hands-on activities, live demonstrations and multimedia installations that invite visitors to touch, explore and experiment for themselves. This interactive format enhances understanding of scientific concepts, and sparks an interest in science and nature in visitors of all ages.

The diversity of subjects covered

Cité Nature’s temporary exhibitions cover a wide range of subjects, from archaeological discoveries to the latest advances in scientific research. Whether exploring the mysteries of ancient civilizations or learning about the innovative technologies of the future, these exhibitions allow visitors to immerse themselves in a variety of fields and develop their curiosity and knowledge of sometimes little-known subjects.

Exhibitions for all audiences

They are also designed to interest and educate a wide range of audiences, from children to adults. Activities for the youngest visitors introduce them to science and nature in a fun and interactive way, while conferences and workshops for adults offer in-depth discussions on specific topics with experts in the field.

Collaborations with other institutions and artists

Cité Nature frequently collaborates with other museums, scientific institutions and artists to create unique and original temporary exhibitions. These partnerships enable us to present collections and sometimes works of art that are not usually accessible to the public, offering visitors the chance to discover rare and precious treasures.

A fun, interactive pumpkin for all ages

Commitment to sustainable development: a model of environmental responsibility

La Cité Nature is not only a place for science and nature education and awareness, but also a facility committed to sustainable development and environmental preservation. Through a series of environmentally-friendly practices and exhibitions that address sustainability issues, Cité Nature strives to promote a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.

Ecological practices in the museum

Cité Nature implements a number of environmentally-friendly practices to reduce its ecological footprint and encourage sustainable living. These practices include :

• Use of renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, to power the museum and reduce consumption of non-renewable energy ;
• Reduced water consumption through water-saving devices such as low-flow taps and dual-flush toilets, as well as the collection and use of rainwater for irrigation of the museum’s green spaces ;
• Implementation of a recycling and waste management program to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill and promote the recycling and reuse of materials ;
• Use of environmentally friendly and sustainable materials in the construction and design of the museum, and adoption of green building practices to minimize environmental impact ;
• Encouraging visitors and staff to use environmentally-friendly means of transport, such as public transport, carpooling or cycling, to get to the museum.

Exhibitions on sustainable development and environmental preservation

The Musée Nature Arrageois regularly addresses issues of sustainable development and environmental preservation in its exhibitions and educational programs. These exhibitions explore the relationship between man and the natural world, and highlight the consequences of our actions on the environment. By raising visitors’ awareness of these issues and presenting them with solutions to reduce their ecological impact, Cité Nature helps promote a more environmentally-friendly way of life.

Partnerships and community initiatives

The Cité also collaborates with other organizations and institutions to promote sustainable development and environmental preservation. By participating in community projects such as reforestation campaigns, river clean-ups and environmental awareness programs, La Cité Nature strives to have a positive impact on the local community and environment.

To conclude and get there

Overall, the Cité Nature museum is fascinating and educational; it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a science enthusiast, a nature lover or just looking for a fun, educational day out with the family, Cité Nature is well worth a visit.

Location: close to the chemin du halage and the Aquarena swimming pool:

Opening hours and prices

The museum is closed on Mondays (except during school vacations) and public holidays. The museum is free for children under three. Children aged 3 to 11 pay three euros. Adolescents aged 12 to 17 pay 4 euros, while adults pay 7 euros (full price). If you are unemployed, on minimum social benefits, a student or a disabled person, the rate is €4.
For groups of 10 or more, the individual rate is €5. Annual passes are also available, so please visit the website or call 03 21 21 59 59.

P.F.C.