Fans of Deyrolle and Jules Verreaux will gush over the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature’s (Museum of Hunting and Nature) stuffed cornucopia of taxidermy, fine art and antique firearms. Here, the eternal struggle of man versus beast is displayed in a manner so sophisticated and eclectic even die-hard PETA members might cop to admiration. Inside, the museum’s silk brocade walls, traditional trophies and paintings coexist harmoniously with contemporary pieces by artists such as Jan Fabre, Gelitin and Marc Dion.

It’s not the only reason to head here. Sequestered behind the grand facade of Hotel de Guénégaud, the museum is perched in a mid-17th century building designed by architect François Mansart. After virtually three years of extensive remodeling, the museum opened its doors to the public, brandishing a completely redesigned space that artistically bridges the gap between past and present.