Textile Museum
Walk in the footsteps of the region's textile industry's little hands
Cholet, the capital of the handkerchief
For centuries, the Cholet people have been growing linen and weaving cloth to sell on the markets. First locally, then internationally.One thing leading to another, they began to make handkerchiefs in 1736.
Success came quickly and very quickly the handkerchiefs succeeded the canvases. Indeed, the production is much more concise and allows them to distribute more.
In the 18th century, everyone had a handkerchief in their pocket. There are those for everyday use and those for special occasions.
The Cholet handkerchief is red to represent the blood shed by the Vendéens. It owes its name to a famous song by Théodore Botrel.
The textile museum
It was inaugurated in 1995 and its recognition is directly linked to its European dimension.Housed in a former laundry where the red handkerchief was made, it highlights the industrial heritage of the town of Cholet.
In the museum, the art of weaving is exposed to the public. Discover the evolution of techniques over time and technologies.
The other activities of the place
To enhance the visit of the Textile Museum, several activities are organised:
- Exhibitions of unique pieces of contemporary textiles
- An educational area
- A garden of plants used to make fabric and dyes.
Practical information
Find all the necessary information below:
- 📍 Address: rue du Docteur Roux, 49300 Cholet
- 💵 Price: 4,50 €/person except reduced or group price
- 🕒 Open Wednesday to Sunday (and Tuesday during the 2 summer months) | 10am to 12pm and 2pm to 6pm (closed on Sunday morning)
- 🚶 The self-guided tour lasts at least 1 hour.
Share on
