Musée de la Contrefaçon: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide to Paris’s Hidden Museum of Counterfeiting
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
Nestled in Paris’s upscale 16th arrondissement, the Musée de la Contrefaçon (Museum of Counterfeiting) is a unique destination dedicated to the world of fake goods. Established by the Union des Fabricants (UNIFAB) in 1951, this museum presents an intriguing journey through the history, artistry, and societal impacts of counterfeiting, with over 350 to 500 authentic and counterfeit items displayed side-by-side. Whether you’re a traveler, a student, or an advocate for intellectual property, the museum offers an eye-opening experience that blends cultural history, legal context, and practical education about the dangers and creativity of counterfeiting (Musée de la Contrefaçon – The Collections; WIPO Magazine; Sortir à Paris).
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Significance
- The Museum’s Mission and Collections
- Legal and Institutional Framework
- Visiting the Musée de la Contrefaçon: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
- Exhibition Highlights
- Educational Initiatives and Societal Impact
- Special Events and Guided Tours
- Practical Tips for Visiting
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Nearby Attractions
- Conclusion
- References and External Links
History and Significance
Origins and Founding
The Musée de la Contrefaçon was founded in 1951 by UNIFAB, an organization established in 1872 to protect intellectual property and combat commercial imitations. Housed in a historic mansion at 16 Rue de la Faisanderie—a building once owned by Gaston-Louis Vuitton—the museum’s location is both symbolic and strategic, highlighting France’s commitment to fighting counterfeit products (The Cut; WIPO Magazine).
Relevance Today
From ancient amphora stoppers to high-tech gadgets, counterfeiting has spanned millennia. The museum’s collection reflects this evolution, offering a living archive that’s continually updated through partnerships with customs, police, and brands (Places in France – Counterfeit Museum).
The Museum’s Mission and Collections
Collection Overview
The museum features between 350 and 500 items, always presented in pairs—authentic originals beside their counterfeits. This direct comparison enables visitors to identify subtle differences in craftsmanship, labeling, and packaging. The displays cover a vast range of goods, from luxury handbags and watches to pharmaceuticals, toys, electronics, and even historic artifacts (Wikipedia; Paris Discovery Guide).
Key Thematic Sections
- Industrial: Fashion, electronics, automobile parts, and more, regularly updated through cooperation with law enforcement and rights holders.
- Historic: Artifacts and documents tracing the roots and evolution of counterfeiting.
- Artistic: Forged artworks and sculptures, illuminating the prevalence of art fraud (Musée de la Contrefaçon – The Collections).
Legal and Institutional Framework
The museum is managed by UNIFAB and works closely with French ministries (Economy, Finance, Industry), Customs, and Police. Counterfeit items are sourced via seizures and donations, never purchased, ensuring the exhibits are both authentic and legally acquired (Musée de la Contrefaçon – The Collections).
Visiting the Musée de la Contrefaçon: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Location:
16, rue de la Faisanderie, 75016 Paris, France
Opening Hours (2025):
- Official website: Monday to Friday, 2:00 PM–5:30 PM (last entry 5:00 PM). Closed weekends and major holidays (Musée de la Contrefaçon official website).
- Other reported hours: Some sources note Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:30 PM, and occasional guided tours on the first Saturday each month. Always confirm current times on the official website.
Admission Fees:
- Adults: €6–€7
- Reduced (students, seniors): €5
- Children under 8 or 12: Free (depending on source)
- Group/school visits: By prior booking
(Sortir à Paris; Paris Top Ten)
Accessibility:
The museum is housed in a historic building. While it is compact and manageable, accessibility for wheelchair users may be limited. It is advisable to contact the museum in advance to discuss specific needs (Paris Top Ten).
Getting There:
- Metro Line 9 (La Muette or Rue de la Pompe stations)
- Bus lines 22, 32, 52, 63
Exhibition Highlights
Permanent Collection
The museum boasts side-by-side displays of:
- Luxury Goods: Authentic and counterfeit Louis Vuitton bags, watches, and fashion accessories.
- Electronics: Original and fake mobile phones and gadgets.
- Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics: Illustrating health risks posed by fake medicines and beauty products.
- Toys and Automotive Parts: Demonstrating safety dangers of counterfeiting.
- Historic Artifacts: Ancient amphorae and early forgeries, tracing the roots of imitation.
Interactive Elements
Visitors are encouraged to test their skills at spotting fakes, with bilingual explanations and infographics enhancing the educational experience (WIPO Magazine).
Temporary Exhibitions
Special exhibitions, such as those focusing on packaging or the art of forgery, are occasionally held. Check the museum’s official website for up-to-date schedules.
Educational Initiatives and Societal Impact
Workshops and Tours
The museum offers regular guided tours and workshops for families, school groups, and professionals, led by experts in intellectual property and anti-counterfeiting (Hors les Murs).
Awareness and Advocacy
Interactive displays educate visitors about the economic losses, health dangers, and criminal networks associated with counterfeiting. The museum partners with French and international authorities to promote vigilance and consumer protection (Musée de la Contrefaçon – The Collections).
Special Events and Guided Tours
Events:
- Special exhibitions and workshops are offered periodically.
- Guided tours are available by appointment and on certain days (e.g., first Saturday of each month).
- Group and educational visits should be booked in advance.
Practical Tips for Visiting
- Plan ahead: Check the official website for up-to-date hours and event schedules.
- Duration: Allow at least 40 minutes for your visit; enthusiasts may spend over an hour examining detailed exhibits.
- Language: Most displays are in French; staff can assist English-speaking visitors.
- Photography: Inquire about current photography policies at the entrance.
- Souvenirs: The museum has a small selection of educational materials; a full gift shop is not available.
- Accessibility: Contact ahead for mobility concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the Musée de la Contrefaçon visiting hours?
A: Generally Monday–Friday, 2:00–5:30 PM (last entry 5:00 PM), though some sources report Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:30 PM. Verify on the official website.
Q: How much are tickets?
A: €6–€7 for adults, €5 reduced, free for children under 8 or 12.
Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Accessibility is limited due to the historic building; contact in advance to discuss needs.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by reservation for groups and on select dates.
Q: Is the museum suitable for children?
A: Yes, for ages 8 and above.
Nearby Attractions
After your visit, explore nearby Paris sites such as the Bois de Boulogne, Fondation Louis Vuitton, Arc de Triomphe, Palais de Tokyo, and Musée Marmottan Monet for a full cultural experience.
Conclusion
The Musée de la Contrefaçon is a rare Parisian gem, offering visitors insight into the evolution and consequences of counterfeiting. Through its engaging displays, expert-led tours, and commitment to public awareness, the museum stands at the intersection of history, law, and consumer education. Its accessible location, modest pricing, and unique subject matter make it ideal for travelers seeking something truly different in Paris. For the latest updates and personalized visitor experiences, consult the official website or use digital tools like the Audiala app.
References and External Links
- Musée de la Contrefaçon – The Collections
- WIPO Magazine
- Sortir à Paris
- The Cut
- Paris Top Ten
- Wikipedia
- Places in France – Counterfeit Museum
- Hors les Murs