Textile Museum
In Cholet, local history is inextricably linked to weaving.
The Textile and Fashion Museum offers a chance to discover this iconic industrial heritage.
Housed since 1995 in a former bleachery built in 1881, the museum preserves the legacy of Cholet’s textile industry.
For centuries, the people of Cholet have cultivated flax and woven fabrics to sell at markets initially locally, and later internationally.
Over time, they began producing handkerchiefs, starting in 1736.
Success came quickly, and handkerchiefs soon took the place of general fabrics; production was far more streamlined, allowing for wider distribution.
By the 18th century, everyone carried a handkerchief in their pocket with different types for everyday use and special occasions.
The Cholet handkerchief is red, symbolizing the blood shed by the people of the Vendée region. It takes its name from a famous song by Théodore Botrel.
A visit to the museum traces the various stages of production, from raw fiber to finished garment. It offers insight into the techniques that shaped the local economy.
The collections are housed in an impressive industrial building, recognizable by its tall, 26-meter chimney.
In the entrance hall, you can also watch weaving demonstrations on restored mechanical looms.
As you tour the museum, discover the story of the famous red Cholet handkerchief, which is still woven on-site.
Outside, a garden showcases various fiber plants (hemp and flax) as well as dye plants used to produce thread and create dyes.
📍Address: Textile and Fashion Museum, Rue du Docteur Roux, 49300 Cholet.
⌚Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM. Closed Sunday mornings. Open Tuesdays during July and August.
💶Rates: €5 for adults (excluding group rates).
Admission is free on Saturdays from October 1st to May 31st.
Stay at a 3-star hotel in Cholet’s city center. The Best Western San Benedetto offers easy access to the city's main tourist attractions.
After a day of sightseeing, you can enjoy the various services offered by the hotel, such as:
All our rooms are air-conditioned and fully equipped to ensure a pleasant stay.
In the morning, we offer a choice of breakfast options, including buffet and express styles.
Book your hotel in Cholet now!
The Textile and Fashion Museum offers a chance to discover this iconic industrial heritage.
Housed since 1995 in a former bleachery built in 1881, the museum preserves the legacy of Cholet’s textile industry.
A museum at the heart of Cholet’s industrial heritage
The story of the Cholet handkerchief
For centuries, the people of Cholet have cultivated flax and woven fabrics to sell at markets initially locally, and later internationally.
Over time, they began producing handkerchiefs, starting in 1736.
Success came quickly, and handkerchiefs soon took the place of general fabrics; production was far more streamlined, allowing for wider distribution.
By the 18th century, everyone carried a handkerchief in their pocket with different types for everyday use and special occasions.
The Cholet handkerchief is red, symbolizing the blood shed by the people of the Vendée region. It takes its name from a famous song by Théodore Botrel.
Visiting the Textile Museum
A visit to the museum traces the various stages of production, from raw fiber to finished garment. It offers insight into the techniques that shaped the local economy.
The collections are housed in an impressive industrial building, recognizable by its tall, 26-meter chimney.
In the entrance hall, you can also watch weaving demonstrations on restored mechanical looms.
As you tour the museum, discover the story of the famous red Cholet handkerchief, which is still woven on-site.
Outside, a garden showcases various fiber plants (hemp and flax) as well as dye plants used to produce thread and create dyes.
Practical Information
📍Address: Textile and Fashion Museum, Rue du Docteur Roux, 49300 Cholet.
⌚Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM. Closed Sunday mornings. Open Tuesdays during July and August.
💶Rates: €5 for adults (excluding group rates).
Admission is free on Saturdays from October 1st to May 31st.
Where to stay in Cholet?
Stay at a 3-star hotel in Cholet’s city center. The Best Western San Benedetto offers easy access to the city's main tourist attractions.
After a day of sightseeing, you can enjoy the various services offered by the hotel, such as:
- has 24-hour reception;
- a bar with a patio;
- secure parking.
All our rooms are air-conditioned and fully equipped to ensure a pleasant stay.
In the morning, we offer a choice of breakfast options, including buffet and express styles.
Book your hotel in Cholet now!
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