Right in the heart of Saint-Omer, rue Carnot, behind an imposing wrought-iron gate, stands a sumptuous 18th-century residence. It is one of the finest examples of civil architecture from this period in the region, and has been home to the Musée Sandelin since 1904. Renovated in 2022, it offers a gateway to the history and treasures of the Audomarois region, as well as a journey to other lands in its salons and collectors' cabinets...
> "History and treasures of the Audomarois" visitor trail Immerse yourself in 1400 years of Audomarois history, from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, through the objects and treasures that have come down to us: weapons, mosaics, sculptures, ceramics, paintings... At the origins of this territory, on the border between Flanders and Artois, there were powerful religious establishments that commissioned remarkable buildings and works. In the 13th century, Saint-Omer was one of the largest towns in Europe, and the last vestiges of its impressive alderman's hall bear witness to its wealth. You can also discover more recent ceramics and glasswork, as well as the works of major artists from the Auvergne region.
> "A sumptuous residence, collectors" visitor trail Housed in a sumptuous mansion built by Countess Marie-Josèphe Sandelin, the Musée Sandelin takes you on a journey through the art of 18th-19th century living and collecting, with its reception rooms and curiosity cabinets. Precious antique archaeological objects, French, Flemish and Vietnamese furniture, a remarkable collection of paintings, tropical birds, mother-of-pearl shells... take a trip to another world.
> "Masterpieces" thematic tour: a tour of the museum based around ten major works. > Temporary exhibition: "A plume !" 08/04 > 31/12/2023 The theme of this exhibition is bird reproduction. It highlights various aspects of this fascinating subject, from the superb courtship displays by male birds of paradise to win over females, to the departure of young birds from their nests. For the occasion, specimens dating back to the 19th century are being brought out of the Henri Dupuis Museum (the natural history museum of the town of Saint-Omer), including males, females, young birds and an astonishing collection of eggs!
> "Espace relax": a place to relax and play in the museum: books, board games, Flemish wooden games, drawing materials, etc. > A wide range of activities throughout the year: children's get-togethers, yog'art, meetings, workshops, games, etc.
