This museum offers a fascinating look at the growth of Bordeaux from its Gallo-Roman beginnings right up to the outbreak of World War II, passing by its explosive growth as a global port in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. The 20th century section is undergoing expansion and has already hosted some fascinating temporary exhibitions. However, the real draw here is the unflinching permanent exhibition looking at the role that slavery played in the growth of Bordeaux.