Exhibitions and events
Exhibitions
Fleets & fracas, the La Hougue shipwrecks (1692)
Discover the vestiges of the Barfleur-La Hougue battle and dive into the thick of France’s naval history through the exhibition’s 200 artefacts. From the building of the King’s ships, life on board and navigation to line of battle tactics and the work of archaeological divers, you will know all the ins and outs of the Battle of Barfleur-La Hougue by the end!
Admission to this exhibition is included in your crossing ticket to Tatihou.
History of a “lining” fishing boat
In this hangar, between lofting and moulds, ship carpentry tools and fishing tackle, explore the history of this lining vessel still called a “bautier”, built in Barfleur in 1948. On a secure walkway above, you can gain a higher perspective of the beams across the boat’s deck which have been completely renovated. The construction of a timber boat is explained through drawings and scale models. Horizontal, longitudinal and cross-sectional views as well as working drawings immerse you in this captivating world of shipwrights, who perpetuate a time-honoured skill.
The long-lining fishing technique entails extending into the sea, via a mainline, branchlines to which baited hooks have been attached to catch large fish on the seabed (porbeagle sharks, school sharks, small-spotted catsharks, rays and congers). Baiting, net shooting then hauling were physically demanding and sometimes dangerous.
This arduous fishing technique, entirely done by hand and environmentally friendly, reached its peak in the 1960s-1980s. Nowadays it is hardly practised anymore. The Sainte-Thérèse-Souvenez-Vous is a symbolic vessel of the long-lining fishing technique in the Val de Saire area.
Have you seen the natural history gallery inside the museum? Well, today, it’s sneaking out! Its panels are going to hang out in the big maritime garden, on the lazaretto’s walls, near the waterfall! Since the museum and the various thematic collections on the island’s myriad treasures are undergoing a major overhaul, some of the displays are being moved!
You can find the scientific content of the natural history gallery in the gardens. Become more familiar with the phenomenon of tides and learn how to recognise the different land-based or marine species that live on Tatihou and in the English Channel.
The richly illustrated panels are an invaluable educational resource for students who come to stay on Tatihou, and a significant information source for everyone!
Exhibition on display on the lazaretto walls, outside.
Events
“Les échos de Tatihou”
A free themed guided tour every day!
Would you appreciate some guidance during your trip to the island? Every day, Tatihou staff give you a chance to learn about a chapter in the island’s history, an aspect of its natural heritage or know-how associated with coastal life. Take advantage of a free guided tour focusing on a specific subject: a visit to the ship carpentry workshop, an explanation of the lazaretto and its workings in the 18th and 19th centuries, a bird-watching tour of the island, an overview of the history of the military fortifications or island life in the 20th century, a visit to the marine biology laboratory, museum or the gardens. A different theme each day.
Daily, free of charge. The tour theme is indicated daily at the island’s Customs House.
“Les Traversées Tatihou – Festival des musiques du large”
For this festival’s 31st edition which will be taking place from 9 to 13 August, come and sing and dance in the traditional marquee set up on Tatihou Island. This year, the festival’s aim is to highlight its openness to the world’s myriad cultures and to celebrate women’s music. The festival’s programme is set to be original and inquisitive, showcasing traditional and international music not just on the island but also throughout the neighbouring area. The line-up for this colourful new edition in step with the tidal rhythms includes: concerts, dancing, Irish sessions, film screenings, entertainment, hands-on artistic workshops, encounters, musical strolls, concert-promenades in the gardens and musical encounters.
Tatihou Island’s cultural programme puts its natural and historical wonders centre-stage
Cultural and festive events are organised all year round to shine the spotlight on the island’s diverse heritage. Musical performances, concerts, conferences and workshops are hosted. Performers, actors, scientists, artists, musicians, dancers and storytellers celebrate Tatihou by sharing the island’s many different facets with visitors. Some are well-known and on show all year round. Others are more low-key but just as captivating, whether it’s a low stone wall, a boat pulley, a rock or an exotic plant. All these historical, poetic and scientific snippets make the island a unique place which resonates and strikes a chord with each of us in different ways.