The fabulous collection of the Cité Rétromécanique Maurice Dufresne

Welcome to an extraordinary journey through time, where 3000 machines tell the epic story of the industrial revolution. The Cité Rétromécanique Maurice Dufresne, nestled in the former Marnay mill in Azay-le-Rideau, is home to a collection unique in the world, patiently assembled by a visionary enthusiast. From the first automobiles to the agricultural machinery of yesteryear, via aircraft and weaving looms, each piece whispers a fascinating story, ready to amaze young and old alike in this temple to the mechanics of yesteryear.

The story of a mechanical passion

Born in 1930 into a modest family, Maurice Dufresne became a journeyman blacksmith and did his tour de France. His passion for mechanics was awakened during his apprenticeship, where he developed a particular sensitivity for technical innovations.

Becoming a scrap metal dealer in Villeperdue, he rescued treasures destined for oblivion from destruction. For more than 40 years, he patiently assembled an impressive collection of vehicles and unusual objects from the period, precious witnesses of the industrial revolution to the glorious thirties.

On the banks of the Indre, at the Marnay mill, he has been restoring and exhibiting his finds since 1992. From vintage posters to exceptional pieces, each object tells a story that Maurice enjoyed sharing with passion.

When the weather is fine, you can take advantage of our special events: solar-powered car-building workshops for 6-10 year-olds, giant Cluedo for the whole family, and surprising demonstrations of the mechanical engineering of yesteryear.

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As the seasons go by, enjoy a variety of activities for young and old alike. On Wednesday afternoons, children aged 6 to 10 are introduced to the creation of solar cars in fun and educational workshops.

Every month, the Museum RoadTrip invites car enthusiasts to a day of discovery on the roads of Touraine, between heritage and tastings.

Fans of riddles can test their deduction skills at the Giant Cluedo organised on the museum grounds.

Don’t miss the Night of the Museums offering an exceptional opening of the museum’s reserves, revealing treasures usually inaccessible to the public. For an immersive experience, remember to bring your torch!

Finally, special events will punctuate the year, such as the Great Easter Egg Hunt, a festive day for Father’s Day or a historical re-enactment for the European Heritage Days.

Whether you’re a history buff, car enthusiast or simply curious, the Cité Rétromécanique Maurice Dufresne has some great discoveries in store for you!

The Cité Rétromécanique as a family

Get ready for a unique adventure where young and old become explorers of time! A book-game awaits your children at reception for a fun discovery of the mechanical treasures. Follow the trail punctuated by adapted audio guides that bring the machines of yesteryear to life.

For a gourmet break, the restaurant Chez Jeannot welcomes you in a vintage atmosphere. Its sunny terrace offers a soothing view of the park while the kids have fun spotting the vehicles on display in the open air.

Around the Dufresne Museum

3000 treasures to admire at the museum

From 250 vehicles to 1600 historic weapons, the wealth of heritage transports you through a century of innovation. An authentic Blériot type aircraft, identical to the one used on the firstChannel crossing, sits alongside a rare guillotine from 1792 and its wax heads of famous condemned men.

The former farrier has preserved unique items such as this mysterious petroleum lamp that lit the trenches during the First World War. Each room recounts the evolution of means of transport and production: from cycles to locomotives, from weaving looms to agricultural machinery.

A true technical heritage is on display in this mechanical labyrinth where the objects, painstakingly restored, bear witness to the creative genius of our ancestors.

The jewels of the collection

Behold the majestic Buick Roadmaster from 1937, pride of the Musée Maurice Dufresne. This gleaming American sits amidst exceptional farm machinery such as the 1920 McCormick combine. Not far away, a unique collection of steam engines tells the story of the evolution of industrial energy.

In the transport gallery, admire the mysterious prototype helicopter from the 1930s, never marketed, alongside a rare Stanle steam cary from 1925. The crafts room reveals some unexpected treasures: a barrel organ with melodies from yesteryear and a printing press that published the first Tourange newspapers.