Figeac Things to Do

Champollion Museum, dedicated to both Egypt and the writing systems of the world, is located in the house that was the birthplace of Jean-François Champollion - a French scholar who first deciphered the Egyptian hieroglyphic system by reading the inscriptions on the Rosetta stone.

The first half of the museum is dedicated to Champollion's most famous discovery - Egyptian writing system, - and has sections on the hieroglyphs themselves, history, mummification rituals (including a mummy!), religion, etc.

The secon half of the museum is dedicated to the other writing systems - including those originating in the Middle East, China, and Latin America, some of them over five thousand years old. Film projections are also featured, and there is a programme of talks (in French only).

To make the most of your visit, there is a helpful audioguide, including English, German and Spanish versions. Entry cost was EUR 4 per person, but there are a number of discounts for groups, children, etc. The audio guide is extra. Keep in mind the museum is closed on Mondays except during the months of July and August.