Secrets d'Acadiens

Discover the hidden treasures of Grand-Pré Street

Immerse yourself in Bonaventure's intangible heritage, values, and unique culture with the summer exhibition Secrets d'Acadiens.

Open during the summer season only, this exhibition invites you to discover the fascinating history of Grand-Pré Street through the unique creations of artisan Marcel Arsenault.

A journey through Acadian architectural heritage

Upon arrival, marvel at the models of historic buildings on Grand-Pré Street, meticulously crafted by Marcel Arsenault. Accompanied by immersive audio clips, these works tell the story of Bonaventure's iconic landmarks.

TÉLÉVAG: Exhibition of miniature churches in Bonaventure - Marcel Arsenault

Meet Marcel Arsenault: A craftsman from Bonaventure with a great passion for tiny houses

Marcel Arsenault has been making models of Acadian heritage buildings in his workshop for 25 years. Over the years, he has also reproduced churches in Baie-des-Chaleurs and the Magdalen Islands. When you visit the museum, be sure to stop by the Saint-Bonaventure Catholic Church to see Mr. Arsenault's reproductions of churches.

Interview with Marcel Arsenault – TéléVag – December 6, 2021

The salt works: A place full of history

The Secrets d'Acadiens pavilion is a former saltworks dating from the mid-19th century, once owned by Charles Robin and Company. Established in Baie-des-Chaleurs in 1767, it was the largest fishing company in Eastern Canada. Its ships transported dried cod, renowned for its high quality, to countries such as Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Brazil.

Originally located near the Bonaventure lighthouse, the pavilion was moved around 1900 to Grand-Pré Avenue, behind the former Robin store, along with a small dried cod shed that now houses the Espace Indigo pavillon.

Right next door, an old forge belonging to the same company, renamed Pavillon Évangéline, displays works by local artisans in a warm and intimate atmosphere.

These three buildings bear witness to the economic and cultural development of Baie-des-Chaleurs.

Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in Acadian history during your next trip to the Gaspé Peninsula.

Plan my visit to the Museum

Outdoor buildings at the Musée acadien du Québec in Bonaventure.

Musée acadien du Québec site

Contact us

95 Port-Royal Avenue, Bonaventure, G0C 1E0

[email protected]

418-534-4000 | Toll-free: 1-833-920-3900

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SCHEDULE

Tuesday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.