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Amusement parks

Samara Arboretum

4.3 · 2,522 reviews
Educational and immersive
Samara Arboretum, Rue d'Amiens, 80310 La Chaussée-Tirancourt, France
Interesting facts
1

The park is located on a site rich in archaeological finds, particularly artifacts from the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods.

2

Construction techniques used in the park reflect experimental archaeology, testing how ancient inhabitants utilized local timber and mud.

3

The arboretum features a collection of plant species historically found in the Somme region throughout different geological eras.

4

Several workshops on-site allow visitors to participate in prehistoric-style activities like pottery or wood carving.

5

The park was intentionally developed to showcase the transition from nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyles to sedentary farming communities.

6

The landscape design includes reconstructed burial mounds and defensive enclosures typical of the Iron Age.

7

The site hosts specific events showcasing ancient cooking methods and food preparation using primitive hearths.

Overview

Samara is an expansive archaeological park and nature reserve that reconstructs prehistoric life through full-scale village replicas. The site features authentic reconstructions of dwellings from the Paleolithic to the Iron Age, including Neolithic longhouses and Gaulish roundhouses. It spans 30 hectares in the Somme Valley, integrating experimental archaeology with botanical exhibits. Visitors can observe craft demonstrations such as fire-making, flint knapping, and Roman-era building techniques. The grounds include an arboretum dedicated to regional flora and a space dedicated to the evolution of human tools. It serves as a living museum, where structures are periodically rebuilt using traditional materials like wood, wattle, and daub. The site emphasizes the progression of human development in Northern France through immersive environmental displays.

Photo spot

The elevated view overlooking the reconstructed Neolithic village compound.

Insider tips

Wear comfortable, sturdy footwear suitable for walking on unpaved earthen paths.

Check the daily program at the entrance to align your visit with specific craft demonstration times.

Bring a windbreaker, as the open plains of the Somme Valley can be breezy even in summer.

What to avoid

Attempting to see everything in less than two hours, as the walking distances between village zones are significant.

Good to know

Closed during the winter months; operates primarily from spring through early autumn.

Etiquette

Respect the physical reconstructions and do not climb on the thatched roofs or walls of the dwellings.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-4 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring or early summer to experience the arboretum in full bloom and enjoy the outdoor activities in pleasant weather.
Address
Samara Arboretum, Rue d'Amiens, 80310 La Chaussée-Tirancourt, France
Website
49.949, 2.171
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsNeolithic longhouses, Gaulish village, Paleolithic camp reconstructions
Botanical featuresRegional arboretum and prehistoric plant heritage garden

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early summer to experience the arboretum in full bloom and enjoy the outdoor activities in pleasant weather..

The elevated view overlooking the reconstructed Neolithic village compound.

Close by you'll find Cathédrale Notre-Dame d'Amiens, Zoo Amiens Métropole, Zénith d'Amiens.