Moches!: The Unloved Animals Make Their Comeback
Happening now
A decade after its first edition, the exhibition 'Moches!' is back at the Muséum-Aquarium of Nancy in a fully redesigned scenography. Blending humour and science, it invites visitors from age 6 to take a fresh look at animals deemed ugly or repulsive — a lovely family stop in the heart of the city.
A long-awaited comeback, ten years on
The exhibition made a strong impression on its first outing; it returns ten years later, but nothing has stayed the same. The scenography has been completely reimagined, new species join the bestiary and fresh interactive features punctuate the route. The Muséum-Aquarium of Nancy draws on its rich collections to renew the surprise, with one simple idea: what we call ugly deserves more than a shudder of disgust. It's an ideal way to extend a discovery of Nancy with a cultural visit that speaks to every generation.
Changing how we see ugliness
Nasty, repulsive, unsightly: some animals carry a bad reputation that has nothing to do with their real role in nature. 'Moches!' turns these hasty judgements on their head. By blending humour with scientific rigour, the exhibition explains why a creature strikes us as ugly, and what that appearance says, above all, about our own gaze. Slimy skin, odd silhouettes or improbable snouts become reading keys to understand adaptation, survival and the diversity of life. Visitors often leave with a little more tenderness for the unloved ones.
Observe, touch, crawl: an exhibition at child height
Designed for ages 6 and up, the exhibition bets on experience rather than lengthy labels. Children discover by looking closely, touching certain materials and slipping into features built to their scale. This hands-on approach makes science concrete and joyful: each animal becomes a little riddle to solve. Families find an active visit, moving at the pace of the youngest, with never a dull moment. A real breath of cultural fresh air, ideal for a rainy afternoon or a pause between two strolls through central Nancy.
The Muséum-Aquarium, a stop in central Nancy
Set on rue Sainte-Catherine, a stone's throw from Place Stanislas and the old town, the Muséum-Aquarium of Nancy brings together, under one roof, a tropical aquarium and vast natural-history collections. Seeing 'Moches!' is therefore also a chance to discover the venue itself, its animal galleries and its tanks. Its central location makes it an easy visit to slot into a stay, between a museum and a wander. For opening hours and access to the temporary exhibition, it's best to check the Muséum-Aquarium's official website.
Infos pratiques
Adresse : Muséum-Aquarium, 34 rue Sainte-Catherine, 54000 Nancy
Questions fréquentes
From what age is the exhibition suitable?
It is recommended from age 6 and designed for families, with hands-on features and spaces to explore at child height. Older children and adults will find plenty to marvel at too.
Where and until when can I see 'Moches!'?
At the Muséum-Aquarium of Nancy, 34 rue Sainte-Catherine, until 3 January 2027. The venue is central, right by Place Stanislas and the old town.
What are the opening hours and prices?
Opening hours and full pricing are listed on the Muséum-Aquarium's official website, where you can also check closing days before setting out.
Is the visit genuinely interactive?
Yes: the exhibition invites you to observe, touch and even crawl through original features. This sensory dimension is at the heart of the route and appeals to young and old alike.
