A place dedicated to art and
craftsmanship of leather
Transmission of knowledge, innovation, and excellence define the Cité du cuir. Through an immersive permanent exhibition, temporary exhibitions, and creative workshops, the Cité du cuir highlights both the ancestral craftsmanship and the contemporary relevance of leather. Step into a unique place where leather reveals all its richness and timeless appeal.
The role of the Cité du cuir
The Cité du cuir was founded with a dual ambition: to preserve and showcase an exceptional industrial and artisanal heritage, while passing it on to future generations. Its mission is to promote this expertise beyond regional and national borders, positioning the Cité du cuir as a symbol of excellence and a driver of cultural and economic attractiveness.
What you can discover
An immersive permanent exhibition
Upon arrival, visitors receive an audio headset providing guided content throughout the visit. This marks the beginning of a multisensory experience, enhanced by live demonstrations from professionals, particularly during cutting and stitching stages that are emblematic of glove-making.
Discover the fascinating world of leather gloves. From historic tanning workshops to a boutique inspired by the 1920s–1930s, each stage immerses visitors in the history and gestures behind this unique craft. Explore an impressive collection of 4,000 glove models, tools, and machines within an immersive setting designed to create an interactive sensory experience.
Dyeing
Discover the art of leather dyeing and its evolution over the centuries. An interactive display allows visitors to experiment with color mixing, an essential stage in the dyeing process.
Drying room
Traditionally located in the attic of factories, the drying room is a calm space set apart from the noise of machinery. It offers a moment of quiet reflection and a pause in the production process.
Leather library
Explore leather through a sensory experience that reveals this natural, sometimes surprising material. Among the highlights are full exotic hides on display, offering a rare insight into this precious resource.
Twon square and department store
Stroll through a city of yesteryear where a display window reveals a glove-maker at work, paid by the piece. Step into a boutique inspired by the 1920s–1930s, the Glove Conservatory, where 500 glove models are on display.
The leather gallery
A captivating space dedicated to leather and its many applications, from fashion to industry. Discover the evolution of design through iconic pieces and everyday objects: saddlery, luggage, furniture, lighting, and more. Past and present innovations highlight the richness of this timeless material.
More than a museum!
Creative workshops
The Cité du cuir offers creative workshops open to all, led by the museum team and local artisans. These sessions encourage cultural exchange and creativity while introducing visitors to traditional crafts.
A production workshop
This shared workspace is equipped with professional machinery, including a high-quality splitting machine rarely accessible to individual artisans. Designed as a living, collaborative space, it brings together professionals, students, artists, designers, and creators.
A documentation center
The Cité du cuir preserves and promotes industry archives, including sketches, prototypes, models, and photographs donated by local companies. These resources support research and creative projects and are accessible on-site or integrated into exhibitions.
Temporary exhibitions
Explore diverse worlds through temporary exhibitions that enrich the museum experience by addressing new themes, highlighting expertise, or hosting industry-related events. A modular 120 m² exhibition space allows the Cité du cuir to accommodate ambitious and inspiring projects.
The team
Directorate
Anaïs Delage, Director
Communication
Juliette Guillemot, Communications Officer
Public sector
Sandra Denichoux-Combeau, Reference shop and reception
Géraldine Gouju, Cultural Mediation Officer
Charlotte VENLA, Home Agent
Clemence PETIT, Cultural Mediation Officer
Collections and exhibitions
Blandine Lamy, Collection Officer
Jérémy Tricart, Collection Assistant, leather reference
Our institutional partners
The Cité du cuir is a project developed by the Porte Océane du Limousin Community of Municipalities, with the support of numerous institutional partners. Their commitment helps to promote this ambitious project, dedicated to passing on and promoting exceptional expertise.
