ARCHAEO TOPO INTERPRETATION CENTRE
Archaeo-topo Interpretation Center that offers creative workshops and an archaeo-rando activity in Les Bergeronnes.
Go back in time to prehistory in Côte-Nord, a region that is privileged in archaeology with more than 1,300 recognized sites. We particularly appreciate the multimedia projection that lifts the veil on the archaeological research that began in the last century in the region. Creative workshops (pottery, dream catcher, talking stick, etc.), archaeo-trekking activities, talks, restaurant, souvenir store, specialized bookstore, biodiversity trail and more.
Further information
Opening time and information on ARCHAEO TOPO INTERPRETATION CENTRE
Mid-May to mid-October: Monday-Sunday, 9am-5pm (8am-7pm in July and August). Adults: $8 CAN.
Message from Management
When Jacques Cartier landed on the new continent, and in particular on the North Shore, he discovered a territory that had been inhabited for over 9,000 years. Before that time, an immense glacier covered the entire Canadian shield, and natives gradually occupied the territory as the ice retreated. Numerous archaeological sites all along the Côte-Nord bear witness to this occupation. In the 1500s, Basque fishermen came to hunt whales, as evidenced by the Anse à la Cave, Île Nue and Middle Bay sites. Later, French, English, Jersey, Acadian and even Norwegian settlers came to occupy this vast territory. The Centre Archéo Topo, with its exhibition "Tours de force", tells the story of this extraordinary adventure.
With no intention of financial gain for its members, the Corporation's mission is to promote the dissemination of archaeology related to the North Shore's maritime resources. For the Corporation, this dissemination is inseparable from the discovery, research and promotion of archaeology.
Our offers and services
Permanent exhibitions
Permanent exhibition "Tours de force": The North Shore is one of the richest archaeological regions in Quebec, with over 1,300 inventoried sites. The permanent exhibition created in 2009 at the Centre will introduce you to eight thousand years of human occupation: Palaeo-Eskimos, Inuit, Basques, English and French all came to discover this region at different times. Their traces reveal an often little-known history.
Semi-permanent exhibition "La Faune du Québec": The Centre Archéo Topo presents a semi-permanent exhibition of all the fauna of Quebec, naturalized by Denis d'Amours. Animals, almost alive in their natural habitat, will help you discover Quebec's fauna: fish, mammals, birds, they're all here.
An impressive wolverine earned Denis D'Amours several awards from the Canadian Taxidermist association in 1994.
Semi-Permanent Exhibition "La forge de Bergeronnes": The exhibition "La Vieille forge des Bergeronnes" tells the story of Omer Gagnon. Originally a farmer, he became a blacksmith in response to the growing demand for iron products. His art is a direct descendant of the French artisan tradition. Established in the early 20th century, Mr. Gagnon's forge became the center of economic activity in Les Bergeronnes. The work of the local people depended entirely on the goods produced by the local blacksmith. The exhibition invites you to discover the heart of the forge, its many tools, and the creations of this indispensable figure.
Center workshops
Pottery workshop:
Domestic Iroquoian pottery was used for a variety of tasks: preparing soup, transporting water and certain foodstuffs, and storing food supplies. Learn how to make a small First Nations vase.
Materials provided.
Cost of activity: $3.00
Expected duration: 60 minutes
Availability: Monday,Friday
Dreamcatcher" workshop:
In Aboriginal culture, the dreamcatcher prevents bad dreams from invading its owner's sleep. Come and create and personalize your own "Dream Catcher".
Materials provided
Cost of activity: $10
Allow 60 minutes
Minimum age: 12
Availability: Wednesday,Saturday
Le bâton de parole" workshop:
The Talking Stick is a "symbol" of harmony and sharing in Native communities. It is used within the ceremonial circle to give the floor to anyone who wishes to speak. The holder of the stick can speak without interruption, and when he has finished, he passes it on to his neighbor, who then speaks in turn, and so on. The Talking Stick allows everyone to have their say. Come and make your own Talking Stick.
Materials provided.
Cost of activity: $3
Allow 60 minutes
Availability: Tuesday
Workshop "Discovering the Totem Animal":
''The Totem Animal'' is an animal that represents an ancestor, guide or protector. It is very present in Amerindian cultures. Totem animals are thought to be animals with which we feel a strong bond, and which can influence us throughout our lives. Come and discover your Animal Guide. Stone painting and necklace making.
Materials provided.
Cost of activity: $3
Allow 60 minutes
Availability: Thursday,Sunday
The restaurant area
Boasting a breathtaking view of the majestic St. Lawrence River, the Centre Archéo Topo's restaurant offers coffee, freshly baked pastries, seafood, sandwiches... in short, everything you need to break bread! Whether it's to savour a succulent brioche or simply to appreciate the beauty of the setting, a stop at the Centre's restaurant is a must!
When the Centre Archéo Topo decided to set up a bookshop specializing in history, anthropology and archaeology, few people expected the success it would enjoy.
The choice of books is exceptional, made by real history buffs, or sometimes bird or even marine mammal enthusiasts.
The store
For over fifteen years, the Centre Archéo Topo boutique has chosen to present high-quality items from Quebec and the region. We could call this fair trade tourism.
Artists and craftspeople can exhibit their work and receive a fair price for it.
This choice, which was original in the beginning, is now part of the principles of fair tourism.
Garments, jewelry and other objects await you, and you'll be able to take home a unique and original souvenir.
Point positif : il y a un espace de télétravail et un coin café avec les commodités de base (vaisselle, ustensiles, four à micro-ondes) pour ceux qui ont leur propre lunch. C’est un endroit très tranquille et chaleureux.