Discover the History of Chocolate
Embark on an exciting journey through time and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of chocolate! Choco-Story, the chocolate museum, traces over 4000 years of cacao and chocolate history through words, images, and flavors. This museum is divided into three distinct sections, each narrating the origin and evolution of chocolate with a unique collection of thousands of objects.
The Origins of Chocolate
Your visit begins with the cacao tree, the source of all chocolate. Learn about the specific conditions required for its growth and how its beans are transformed into the delicious treat we know today. The museum’s Maya space reveals the mystical rites of the Mayas and Aztecs, illustrated by authentic artifacts. It was the Olmecs who first, 4000 years ago, began using cacao.
- Maya Civilization (250 BC – 900 AD): Known for their advanced knowledge in architecture, astronomy, and mathematics, the Mayas refined the use of cacao and laid the foundations for its cultivation.
- Toltèques and Aztecs (1150 – 1500 AD): They continued the Mayan tradition, venerating cacao and the cacao tree, known as the “Tree of Paradise.” Cacao was a bitter drink made with cacao mass, water, and spices, considered the “divine nectar” for the gods. The god Quetzalcoatl, known as the feathered serpent, played a significant role in the cacao’s history. In the Maya space, visitors can admire a statue of Quetzalcoatl.
Did you know cacao was also used as currency? A rabbit cost 10 cacao beans, and a slave, 100 beans.
Chocolate’s Journey to Europe
The second part of the museum begins with the crucial encounter in 1519 between Aztec emperor Moctezuma and Hernan Cortés, leading to the introduction of cacao in Europe. Christopher Columbus was the first European to taste the cacao-based drink “Tchocoatl” in 1502 but found it unappealing.
Initially, the Spaniards didn’t favor this New World drink. However, after adding sugar, they developed a taste for it. From 1528, Cortés imported the precious cacao beans to Spain, and “Chocolate” quickly became the favorite drink of the Spanish court, spreading to other European royal courts by the 17th century, including France, Italy, Germany, and the United Kingdom. By 1615, the chocolate drink was served at official French court audiences.
- 17th Century: Tea and chocolate salons emerged. The museum’s collection of chocolate cups (Mancerinas and Trembleuses) and various chocolate pots (chocolatières) in copper, silver, and other materials showcase the growing European fascination with chocolate. Until the late 18th century, chocolate was a luxury reserved for the nobility, bourgeoisie, and clergy.
- 18th Century: Chocolate was available in pharmacies to mask the bitter taste of some medicines and in spice shops to enhance the flavor of dishes. It wasn’t until the late 18th and early 19th centuries that chocolate was appreciated for its own taste.
The Industrial Revolution and Modern Chocolate
Until the 18th century, chocolate was made artisanally. The industrial revolution significantly improved production methods, and chocolate gained immense popularity in the 19th century. The perfection of production techniques, selection of the best cacao beans, and improved cultivation methods resulted in the fine chocolate we enjoy today.
- 19th Century: Chocolate diversified into liquid and solid forms, milk chocolate, bars, tablets, hollow figures, and pralines. Chocolate became accessible to everyone. The museum offers a journey through the 20th century, starting with early chocolate-making techniques and a glimpse into a 1950s chocolate factory.
Interactive and Experiential Visit
Meet Virtual Chocolatiers
Throughout the day, enjoy demonstrations by virtual chocolatiers like Bertrand Balay (MOF 2023), Stéphane Leroux (MOF 2004), and Jonathan Mougel (MOF 2019). They will detail the techniques for making the best chocolates, from tempering to creating pralines and ganache. You can even taste the chocolates made during these demonstrations.
Create Your Own Chocolates
Join one of the many workshops suitable for all ages to create your own chocolate masterpieces. Guided by a chocolatier, participants can make chocolates and take them home to share or enjoy. These workshops are available for ages 7 and up and vary based on age and skill level. Group reservations are also available.
Family Fun and Learning
The museum offers a fun and educational path for children and families to explore the world of chocolate. A pedagogical booklet is available upon arrival, with options for a treasure hunt or a more in-depth quiz. Families can also book a guided tour for an experience full of surprises. Parent-child workshops are also available.
Marvel at Incredible Chocolate Sculptures
Discover a dedicated area showcasing extraordinary chocolate sculptures, including:
- Fashion: Dresses, hats, stilettos, and handbags crafted by Belgian chocolatier Peter Teerlinck.
- Monuments: Iconic Parisian landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower, sculpted by Jean-Luc Decluzeau, along with his majestic statue of the feathered serpent god, Quetzalcoatl.
- Materials: A series of sculptures by Stéphane Leroux, featuring effects of stone, reeds, driftwood, and metal.
Meet the Biggest Chocolate Fans
Explore the Wall of Fame to see which celebrities are chocolate enthusiasts. Discover the stars who have visited and left their mark in chocolate, including Jean-Paul Belmondo, Nicoletta, Philippe Conticini, Anne Roumanoff, Gérard Jugnot, Thierry Marx, Jean-François Piège, and many others.
Enjoy Tasting Chocolate
Whether you’re an expert in identifying the hidden aromas of fine cacao or simply a chocolate lover eager to taste everything, including pralines, the museum offers a delightful tasting experience. Sample chocolates from various origins like Ecuador, Costa Rica, Vanuatu, and Venezuela, and savor different types of chocolate—dark, milk, and white.
Admission Prices
- Adults: €18
- Students and Seniors (+65 years): €16
- Children (3-11 years): €10.80
- Free for children under 3 years old when accompanied by a parent.
Optional Add-On: Enjoy a real hot chocolate to savor in any season for just €4.00. Choose from Aztec recipe, Spanish recipe, speculoos, hazelnut, milk, or dark chocolate.
- Workshop ticket: €50
This package includes the option to explore the museum either before or after the workshop. Participate in a 45-minute workshop with our chocolatier, create your own chocolates with friends or family, and receive a chocolatier’s apron! (Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult; suitable for ages 7 and up).