What if witches still had a few stories to tell us? Starting October 16, 2026, the Musée d’Aquitaine is dedicating a fascinating and well-researched exhibition to them. From antiquity to feminist movements, the exhibition explores a figure that has continually evolved over the centuries. And Bordeaux holds a very special place in this narrative. “Tremble, tremble! The witches are among us, ” a surprising exhibition that’s already shaping up to be a must-see.
An exhibition blending history, myths, and the imagination
From mythology to feminist movements, the figure of the witch has evolved over the centuries while retaining her mysterious and intriguing aura. Caught between rejection and admiration, fear and inspiration, she has been the subject of numerous historical accounts.
At the Musée d’Aquitaine, the exhibition “Tremble, tremble! The Witches Are Among Us” traces the gradual development of the image of the witch in Western Europe—a history that is also intimately linked to the Southwest. It thus shows how the image of the witch has changed over time. Healer, marginalized woman, menacing figure, or fictional heroine: these depictions also reflect the evolution of how women have been viewed.
Designated an “Exhibition of National Interest, ” this exhibition brings together historical artifacts, works of art, and contemporary creations. It offers a way to contrast the imaginations of the past with the representations of today.
A journey from antiquity to modern witches
The tour begins with the great mythological figures of antiquity before moving on to the Middle Ages—a time when healers and midwives were viewed with suspicion. This suspicion was seized upon by religion, leading to centuries of persecution. As the exhibition progresses, the perspective gradually shifts, leading to the 1970s, when the witch became a figure as fascinating as she was familiar, before taking on, in contemporary times, a militant and feminist dimension.
A Witches’ Ball to kick off the exhibition
The opening will offer a delightful preview of the exhibition with a true Witches’ Ball. On Friday, October 16, 2026, the Bordeaux National Opera Ballet will take over the Musée d’Aquitaine for three hours of dance, costumes, and legends. The famous Sabbath dances will be reimagined by the Opera’s dancers for a particularly spellbinding opening night.
Practical information:
📍Musée d’Aquitaine, 20 Cours Pasteur, 33000 Bordeaux
📆 October 16, 2026, through May 23, 2027
🎫Full price: €6 | Reduced price: €3.50 | Student price (under 26): €2
📆 Witches’ Ball (Opening Night): Friday, October 16, 2026
🎫 €20 (includes admission to the exhibition on the evening of the event).
