The ampere is a unit of measurement used worldwide, but it’s also the name of a city in New Jersey (United States) and another in Brazil. Closer to home, a high school, a square, and a metro stop are familiar to everyone in Lyon… And what else!? An asteroid, for that matter! Well, that’s exactly the case. While we all know the name Ampère, we have to admit that we’d be unable to decipher even a single one of his equations. So, to try to unravel some of the mysteries of this genius, head to the outskirts of the capital of Gaul, to the museum that also bears his name!
Ampère, Lyon’s “lightbulb”
He had a level head, a sharp mind, and a clear vision… We’ve humbly touched on the influence of this Lyon-born genius on our daily lives. It would be presumptuous of us to dismiss a lifetime of research in just a few lines, especially when that research has led to so many discoveries. Just like Jacquard—another native of Lyon and the inventor of the loom that laid the groundwork for computers—Ampère’s legacy in our modern world is immense.
Ampère was born in Lyon in 1775 and spent his childhood and adolescence in the family home in Poleymieux-au-Mont-d’Or. It was here that the young André-Marie developed his extraordinary intellect. He devoured every book in the library, particularly the works of Rousseau and Diderot and d’Alembert’s *Encyclopédie*. It just goes to show that it’s only a short step from Enlightenment philosophy to his work on electricity… His thirst for knowledge seemed bottomless; it was therefore only natural that he would turn to mathematics and physics, which would provide him with the keys to his future research.
The Ampère Museum: 1,000 m² and just as many reasons to visit
The estate alone is worth the trip. A magnificent 17th-century building, perfectly preserved, awaits you in a rural setting, nestled between vineyards and forest. The museum, which opened in 1931, is a true temple of knowledge for curious minds of all ages. With 14 rooms and 1,000 m² of exhibition space, immerse yourself in Ampère’s life and work as you explore an incredible collection. On the agenda: exceptional archives featuring period instruments and books, as well as a host of experiments and hands-on workshops to help you understand electromagnetism and electricity in general.
This museum is considered France’s first interactive science museum, and it has been recognized and designated a “Maison des Illustres” by the Ministry of Culture. Just like the Antoine Brun Museum in Sainte-Consorce, the Ampère Museum is one of those museums on the outskirts of Lyon that are anything but secondary. Now more than ever, they need our support to survive, so let’s all head to the museum!
Practical information:
📍 Ampère Museum: 300 route d'Ampère, 69250 Poleymieux-au-Mont-d'Or
⏰ Hours: Open Saturdays and Sundays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
