Building Bridges
Place Mohammed-V
Paris 75005
+33 1 4051 3838
http://www.imarabe.org
Review © 2007, Wcities
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Building Bridges |
1 Rue des Fossés-Saint-Bernard Place Mohammed-V Paris 75005 +33 1 4051 3838 http://www.imarabe.org |
This institute was formed to enable cross-cultural understanding between the Arab nations and France. Established in 1980 with 18 Arab countries, the institute advocates the dissemination of knowledge and cultural customs as well as spiritual teachings in France. The focal point of the institute is to have a continuous cultural exchange between both countries. It is heartening to know that the Arab World Institute ranks among Paris' most-visited monuments and has been created by architect Jean Nouvel. One of the highlights of the building is the hall of pillars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ramzi Zacharia |
 Photo: Beatriz Tadeia |
 Photo: Miruna Stroe |
 Photo: Jen Curry |
 Photo: Anjali Mahendra |
 Photo: William Jimenez-Leal |
 Photo: Monica Velasco |
 Photo: :: Cherry Garcia :: |
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 Photo: kitty shambles |
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An open-air museum for plant life |
78 Corniche Fleurie Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 6200 +33 4 9229 4180 http://www.nice.fr/mairie_nice... jardin.botanique@ville-nice.fr |
Nice's botanical garden really couldn't be anywhere else but on the aptly named Corniche-Fleurie, meaning 'Flowered Balcony'. Literally a museum out in the great wide open, spread over three hectares, this garden grows an impressive quantity of different Mediterranean floral species. Remarkably well kept throughout, it's somewhat of a surprise that so few Niçois actually come to visit. A car-park is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: senorward |
Recalled to history |
Chateau Breteuil Choisel 78460 +33 (0)1 3052 0502 http://www.breteuil.fr |
This Historic Castle, with its parks and fountains is a haven for nature lovers. Transport yourself back to the 17th century as the guides of this castle take you through this huge estate in 17th century costumes. Annually, this castle gets 100,000 visitors and is one of the most frequented places in France. The historic rooms, the lush gardens and the wax figures invite you to explore this private estate. Belonging to the 10th marquis of Breteuil, this castle has France's largest dovecotes that were built in the 15th century. It is home to 3,000 pigeons. Don't be surprised if you see peacocks parading as you stroll down the gardens. Charles de Ferault has also been an inspiration for the parks in this castle. Add this place to your list of "things to see" in Paris. Admission: £9.90 adults, £8.90. Check website for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: HoboInParis.com |
A history of Paris |
23 Rue de Sévigné Paris 75003 +33 (0)1 4272 4113 |
All visitors to Paris should come to this museum, which reveals the secrets of the City of Light from prehistoric times to today. Set up in two contiguous townhouses (the Hôtel Carnavalet was built in 1545 and the Hôtel Le Peletier in the 17th century), you need a whole afternoon to see everything. A plethora of sculptures, paintings and pieces of furniture retrace, each in its own way, the history of Paris. The rooms are decorated to evoke different periods - follow the evolution of furniture from the reign of Henri IV to the beginnings of the 20th century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Whitney Beal |
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Discovering our time |
261 Boulevard Raspail Paris 75014 +33 1 4218 5651 http://www.fondation.cartier.fr |
The glass and steel building, designed by the architect Jean Nouvel, that houses the Foundation Cartier, accurately reflects the specific concept of this museum. Created in 1984, this Foundation helps contemporary artists by promoting their works and exhibits a variety of works from paintings to videos to sculptures. The famous fashion designer Issey Myiake, whose work has sometimes been controversial, is one of the great names exhibited. Admission: EUR5; concessions EUR3.50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: toan2408 |
Decorated by Tobiasse |
Rue St-Sauveur Le Cannet, Alpes-Côte d'Azur 06110 |
Discover this attractive sixteenth-century chapel in the heart of the picturesque little village of Le Cannet, which is 3km from Cannes' centre. Built in stone, it was decorated in 1989 by Tobiasse, a very famous artist from this region (he lives in Saint-Paul de Vence for most of the year). He designed a mosaic pediment, stained-glass windows and painted wood panels, which make up a symbolic fresco, full of life, poetry and spirituality. Tobiasse was born in Israel in 1927. After living in Lithuania for a few years, he arrived in France in 1931. He came to Nice in 1950 and never left the region. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris LOMON |
History of the Franciscan way of life |
Place du Monastère de Cimiez Colline de Cimiez Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côted'Azur 6000 +33 4 9381 0004 |
Up on the hill in Cimiez, within the 17th-century monastic buildings, you'll find Nice's Franciscan museum, which charts the history of the Franciscan way of life from the 13th century to the present day. Visitors can admire the numerous works of art and various religious documents. In the 15th-17th century church, it is worth taking time look at the work of painter Louis Bréa: his portrayal of a recumbent Christ as well as a large baroque altarpiece in gilded wood. An archaeological museum, the Chagall museum and the Matisse museum are all nearby. Free entry. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paul Jaccod |
 Photo: Rebecca Davis |
Medieval artifacts |
6 Place Paul-Painlevé Paris +331 5373 7815 http://www.musee-moyenage.fr |
It is located near the famous Sorbonne University and is one of the best examples of 15th century architecture. The museum showcases armour, chests, ivories, mirrors and hangings which were gathered by Alexandre du Sommerard to portray the Medieval ages and the Renaissance. There is a whole room depicting the most amazing pieces of art from the 16th century, such as Dutch tapestries full of flowers and birds, a woman spinning while a cat plays with the end of the thread and a pretty woman in her bath, overflowing into a duck pond. But the best exhibit is that of 'La Dame à la Licorne '- The Lady with the Unicorn, which features six inscrutable scenes of a beautiful woman flanked by a lion and a unicorn. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: szmilo |
 Photo: Mary Hornbuckle |
 Photo: Susan Sprachman |
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 Photo: Annette Bonus |
 Photo: lisa chavarria |
 Photo: Lou Burnard |
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Battleship discovery |
Quai des Chartrons Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33000 +33 556 44 9611 http://colbert.croiseur.free.fr/ colbert.croiseur@free.fr |
This old warship cruiser belongs to the French Navy and is one of the country's biggest warships. Now with a new lease of life as a museum, you can retrace the life of the vessel from her construction in 1953 to her last mission in 1990 during the Gulf War. In addition to the photography exhibitions on board, a visit to the ship gives you a glimpse of what life must have been like for the sailors who lived and worked on her. You'll come across all the signs of daily living, from mess hall to the barber shop, the dentist's cabin and the hospital ward. Guided tours run every Saturday at 2:30p and there is free parking in front of the ship. Admission EUR7. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Julian Cosson |
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From the 13th to the 16th century |
107 Rue du Rivoli Palais du Louvre Paris 75001 +33 (0)1 44 55 59 26 http://www.lesartsdecoratifs.f... adulte@lesartsdecoratifs.fr |
This splendid museum now has a few rooms dedicated to the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and some jewellery. The collections mostly focus on religious art and the representation of bourgeois lifestyle from the 13th to the 16th century - a reproduction of an ornate Gothic bedroom, furnished with tapestries and grand furniture as well as a Renaissance style room, decorated in imitation marble. The latter very closely depicts life in France and Italy in the 15th century. To make the visit more enjoyable, there is a library and a shop at your disposal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michael Walsh |
 Photo: Lisa Schultz |
The symbol of Paris |
Champ de Mars Paris 75007 +33 1 4411 2323 http://www.tour-eiffel.fr/ courrier@tour-eiffel.fr |
Paris just wouldn't be Paris without the Eiffel Tower. Designed by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World Fair, at 300m it was then the world's tallest building. Not everyone was happy when it was first built; many considered it an eyesore and wanted it pulled down, but today it is one of the world's most visited monuments. The first and second floors can be reached using the stairs, and lifts take visitors to the magnificent view at the top. Admission (elevator to the top): Adults EUR11; Children EUR6. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Patrick A. Rodgers |
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Seat of French Government - Presidential Palace |
55 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré Paris 75008 http://www.elysee.fr/ |
The Elysee Palace is the official home of the President of France - Jacques Chirac. It was built in 1722, between the Grande Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré - a small road leading to the village of Roule - and the Grand Cours (the Champs-Elysées), by architect Armand-Claude Mollet. The structures are a prime example of the classical style. There's an entrance vestibule running along the ceremonial courtyard and gardens, a long central building, a State, apartment divided down the middle by a large salon that opens out onto the garden. On December 12, 1848, the National Assembly issued a decree designating the "Elysée National" as the Residence of the French President, and it is a potent symbol of the French Republic. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bernd & Carolin |
Sensuality through the ages |
72 Boulevard de Clichy Paris 75018 +33 1 42 58 28 73 |
In keeping with its location in the Pigalle area - well known for its sex shops and Moulin Rouge cabaret - this museum devoted to erotic art has over 2,000 sculptures, paintings and objets d'art from all over the world. As well as the permanent exhibition, temporary exhibitions of contemporary art and private collections are organized on a regular basis. The museum is also open at night. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: .ninja06 |
 Photo: Elena Alonso |
An important collection of masterpieces |
Boulevard Sarrail Montpellier 34000 +33 467 14 8300 musee.fabre@ville-montpellier.fr |
This museum is housed in an old high school that once was a former Jesuit college during the 15th and 16th centuries. Today the museum displays paintings of major European artists and schools of the 15th-18th centuries, including Ingres, Véronèse, Courbet and Brueghel. There is a major collection of the works of Bazille, a painter from Montpellier whose rich family lived in a large townhouse on the Rue Jean Moulin and whose fortune supported other painters including Monet (1840-1926). There are also sculptures, ceramics and contemporary works by Degas and Nicolas de Staël (1914-1955). The admission prices range from EUR3 for adults to EUR2 for students. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Juan Ignacio Luque |
Must see exhibitions |
13, Rue montpellieret Montpellier 34000 +33 467 14 8300 musée.fabre@ville.montpellier.fr |
This annexe of the Musée Fabre is situated on the Esplanade Charles de Gaulle not far from the museum. It hosts temporary exhibitions on particular themes throughout the year. Recent exhibitions have included the contemporary painters Soulages and Delaroche. Another exhibition focussed on less well known and underappreciated works representing American abstract expressionism from 1940 to 1960. Guided tours of exhibitions are also arranged and it's well worth telephoning before turning up. Admission: EUR4.57, concessions EUR2.29. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alain Pottier |
Museum and Original Perfume Factory |
20, boulevard Fragonard Grasse, Alpes-Côte d'Azur 06130 +33 4 9336 4465 http://www.fragonard.com tourisme@fragonard.com |
Not to be confused with the Villa Musée Fragonard, (which is devoted to the works of artist Jean-Honoré Fragonard), the Fragonard perfumery is named after one of the oldest perfume-making families in the small town of Grasse. Visits to Fragonard perfumery are free. Housed in a seventeenth-century tannery, the perfumery consists of a museum and the remains of the original factory (the new one has moved to the outskirts of town). A guide is on hand to explain the different stages in perfume making. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: strawberry banana |
Get arty with it |
34 Quai du Louvre Paris 75001 +33 1 4020 5050 (Louvre Museum) |
The Louvre Museum is the perfect place for the Cognoscenti, art lovers and even novices to exchange passionate ideas about art. This museum, in honor of Anne-Louis Girodet de Roussy-Trioson (a former student of David), is holding an exhibition; a cornucopia of paintings and drawings of this 18th century painter. In her works, one can see the influence of politics and art movements that were heightened by Historical events (French Revolution etc). One can also see traces of Symbolism, Surrealism and the French Romantic Movement. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Anneleen De Clercq |
Welcome to Asia |
6 Place d'Iéna Paris 75116 +33 1 5652 5300 http://www.museeguimet.fr virginie.topcha@guimet.fr |
This museum was founded from the private collection of an industrialist from Lyons, Emile Guimet, who left it to the State in 1885. He had gathered many art treasures during a scientific mission to the Far East studying world religions. Over a period of years, other bequests and archaeological acquisitions were added. The works exhibited illustrate the art and spiritual history from South East Asia, India, Afghanistan, Central Asia, Japan, and Korea. Admission for the permanent exhibition is EUR 6 for adults. Permanent and temporary exhibition's access is EUR 8. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: retlaw snellac |
The eccentric house of a Symbolist artist |
14 Rue de la Rochefoucauld Paris 75009 +33 1 4874 3850 http://www.musee-moreau.fr/ |
This museum was created in the residence of the symbolist painter, Gustave Moreau (1826-1898)in accordance with his last request. He set up his studio in this peaceful place, which now hosts a collection of thousands of his paintings and drawings. Some pieces help visitors understand the style and the state-of-mind of a painter who found inspiration in mythology, biblical and literary works. It also helps to determine the evolution of this artist's rather personal approach. Following the steps of the Pre-Raphaelites, Moreau created his own world of fantastic characters painted in shimmering colours. He later inspired the Surrealists who must have found in this eccentric house some ingredients to build their own world. Admission: Adults 22F(EUR 3.35), Concession 15F(EUR 2.28),under-16s free. Free on Sun Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: S.Tommy |
 Photo: Kees van Reeuwijk |
 Photo: madoriene |
A simple beauty |
2 Rue Ronsard Paris 75018 +33 (0)1 4258 7289 http://www.hallesaintpierre.org info@hallesaintpierre.org |
This museum opened in 1986 in the Halle Saint-Pierre, a metallic structure typical of the 19th century built at the foot of the Montmatre Hill. With 600 works of art, the collection assembled by Max Fourny is very representative of the 1970's naïve art. It is the only museum in Paris dedicated to this unique art form. To emphasize its specificity, temporary exhibitions focus on themes and art movements going beyond the academic norm. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ruth Ricks |
 Photo: Gabrielle Allemand |
 Photo: pierre guillien |
Legendary Bresson |
2 Impasse Lebouis Paris 75014 +33 1 5680 2700 http://www.henricartierbresson... contact@henricartierbresson.org |
It was Bresson's wish to start his own foundation. Today, the Fondation Henri Cartier Bresson is home to the artworks and archives of this great photographer. The foundation organizes three exhibitions per year, to showcase the talents of photographers, painters and sculptors. It also allows access to the precious archives for research purposes. If you are looking for quality art, this is where you should be. Free admission on Wednesday evenings (6:30p-8:30p). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Felipe Mesa V. |
 Photo: Colin Evans |
Lero Island |
Les Îles de Lérin Cannes, Alpes-Côte d'Azur 06400 +33 4 9343 1817 (Musée de la Mer ) |
The largest of the three Lérin islands, is a fifteen-minute boat ride from Cannes. In ancient times it was called Léro. Numerous boat companies make the crossing from the old port. Also inhabiting this island is a seventeenth-century fort, which houses the Maritime Museum. This fort was once a prison, and was the home to the unidentified character, called the man in the iron mask. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: J. Flavia |
 Photo: Glen Pettitt |
 Photo: Leandro e Michelle Medeiros |
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Discover the 19th Century |
158 Boulevard Haussmann Paris 75008 +33 1 4562 1159 http://www.musee-jacquemart-an... message@musee-jacquemart-andre.com |
The artist, Nélie Jacquemart, gave up her brushes when she got married. Her passion for art however, continued to blossom, fired by her equally enthusiastic husband who commissioned the building of this elegant house in 1869. During their travels across Europe, they collected objets d'art, paintings and other contemporary treasures. On her death, Nélie left the whole collection to the Institut de France, which opened a museum in the former residence. Most of the works exhibited date from the Italian Renaissance but there are also examples of the Flemish and French schools from the 17th and 18th centuries. Frescoes, delicate pieces of furniture and tapestries are worth the visit. Works by famous artists, such as Rembrandt, Carpaccio, Donatello and Fragonard, are also on display here. Admission for adults is EUR 8.50, 7-17yrs and students EUR 6.50, and under-7s free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jobseeker95479 |
Walk With the Greats |
Jardin des Tuileries Paris 75001 +33 1 4477 8007 http://www.musee-orangerie.fr/ musee.orangerie@culture.gouv.fr |
Take a trip to the beautiful gardens of Tuleries, where the Orangerie Museum is. The museum stocks a host of famous and fabulous artists such as Cezanne, Matisse, Picasso and Henri Rousseau. All the artwork in the museum was handed over by Jean Walter and Paul Guillaume, two art fanatics who have ensured that all these works are exhibited together, so that the public can appreciate them in all their glory. There is a surprise in the basement, the Oval Room - Monet's 'Water-lily', which is on permanent display. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Katherine Benck |
 Photo: Dan Sørensen |
 Photo: Malou Uprichard |
 Photo: Maxime Rischard |
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Lush Landscape in Historic Setting |
15 Rue de Vaugirard Paris, Île-de-France 75006 +33 1 4234 2000 |
A visit to the Luxembourg Palace (completed in 1627) provides a feast for the eyes, highlighting both history and exquisite art in a natural setting. To begin with there are paintings by Rubens and fine works by Delacroix. Historically the area is interesting because during the French Revolution it was a prison and today it is home to the national Senate. Luxembourg Palace Gardens is really an extensive park filled with all types of flowers, plants, shrubs immaculately landscaped to create an Edenesque environment. The setting is perfect for a fun day out and depending on the weather you can rent a small boat on one of the ponds. Or simply, as a visitor, you can enjoy all of the historic statuary recalling France of past eras. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sarah Smiles |
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Works by Maillol and his contemporaries |
61 Rue de Grenelle Paris 75007 +33 1 4222 5958 http://www.museemaillol.com contact@museemaillol.com |
The owner of the elegant 18th-century hôtel, Dina Vierny, was Aristide Maillol's (1861-1944) model over a period of ten years. She opened this museum in 1995 to exhibit his works, which include drawings, prints, sculptures, paintings and sketches. Among the paintings is the delectable "Jeune Fille au chapeau noir" (Girl wearing black hat). The museum also exhibits works by Matisse, Bonnard, Picasso, Rodin, Gauguin, Degas and Cézanne, as well as surprising surrealist works such as Marcel Duchamp's Urinoirs (Urinals) and Roues de Bicyclette (Bicycle wheels). Admission: EUR8; free for children under 16. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: fredpanassac |
Painter, poet & mystic |
Avenue Docteur-Ménard Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 6000 +33 4 9353 8720 http://www.musee-chagall.fr/ museecie@rmn.fr |
Marc Chagall is famous for his works inspired by Jewish folklore, and this museum reveals a deeply mystical poet. Chagall was born in Russia in 1887 and died near Nice at St Paul-de-Vence in 1985. His interpretations of the Bible are presented on vast canvasses, blending candid forms with a poetry of colours. This bright and spacious (900m²) museum shows the works off to their full advantage. At the entrance, a small bookshop stocks a number of publications on Chagall and his work, as well as selling prints. Admission to the permanent collection EUR5.5.50 (EUR4 for students and Sundays), free for children and the 1st Sunday of the month. Entrance to temporary expositions is EUR1.20. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: becky&ralpho |
 Photo: Ken-Zan |
 Photo: Dan Kraut & Anita En |
Matisse: The Man & His Work |
164 Avenue des Arènes de Cimiez Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 6000 +33 4 9381 0808 / +33 4 9353 4053 http://www.musee-matisse-nice.... matisse@nice-coteazur.org |
Housed in a magnificent red building, this museum stands on Cimiez hill, close to the city's Arènes (ancient amphitheatre) and Musée archéologique. Matisse lived in Cimiez from 1917 until his death in 1954. Paintings, drawings and some of his earliest works are on display, along with pieces that reveal his lesser-known talents as a sculptor. Several black and white photographs offer glimpses of the artist's private life. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Military museum |
129 Rue de Grennelle Hotel National des Invalides Paris 75007 +33 1 4442 3772 http://www.invalides.org accueil-ma@invalides.org |
Brush up on your history by visiting this historical museum that contains scores of paintings, sculptures, drawings, and prints. Also on display are war memorabilia, ancient weapons and armory - check out the life size cannon. Over 150,000 historical figurines fight for space on the shelves, as little toy soldiers dressed in their uniforms look fierce and ready for confrontation. Don't miss Napoleon's Tomb, which attracts thousands of visitors annually. And if you want to take a part of history home, visit the gift shop. Guided tours can be arranged. Admission: EUR7.50 Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gooberooo |
 Photo: Deryck Wallace |
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An exhibition of miniatures |
2 Rue Juiverie Lyon 69005 +33 4 7200 2477 http://www.miniaturama.com |
The Palais de la Miniature is an astonishing little private museum tucked in on the corner of Rue Juiverie near to Gare St. Paul. It is of international standing and children will love the games and dolls houses, while adults will appreciate the reconstruction of the famous theatre and restaurant on site. Model makers will gasp in admiration at the skill and patient dexterity displayed here. In short, the Palais de la Miniature will be enjoyed by everyone! Admission is EUR3.80; concessions are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jennifer Ma |
 Photo: Jennifer Ma |
Popular modern art museum |
11 Avenue du Président-Wilson Palais de Tokyo Paris 75116 +33 1 5367 4000 http://www.mam.paris.fr/ corinne.moreau@mairie-paris.fr |
Built for the Universal Exhibition in 1937, this enormous museum exhibits works by contemporary masters. The 20th-century art on display includes works of Fauvism and Cubism by Delaunay, Modigliani, Rouault, Soutine, and the "l'Ecole de Paris" (the Paris school). Must-sees: "La Fée Electricité" by Raoul Dufy, "la Danse" by Henri Matisse and "La Ville de Paris" by Delaunay. Temporary exhibitions run every six weeks. Café, bookshop and concerts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: electronic alchemist |
A world of artists |
12 Rue Cortot Paris 75018 +33 (0)1 4925 8937 http://www.museedemontmartre.fr/ infos@museedemontmartre.fr |
The area of Montmartre with its village atmosphere has inspired many artists. Located in a 17th-century mansion on this famous hill, the little museum tells the political and religious history of the small and picturesque village through various documents, artefacts and art. Among the highlights of the museum is a collection of paintings by Modigliani and Toulouse-Lautrec, as well as mementoes from great composers such as Gustave Charpentier. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michelle Lee |
A must visit for art lovers |
1 Rue de la Légion d'Honneur Paris, Île-de-France 75007 +33 1 4049 4814 / +33 1 4049 4978 http://www.musee-orsay.fr |
Close to about 2.5 million people per year visit this splendid museum. It dates back to the 19th century and is primarily known for its impressive art collection, both impressionist and neo impressionist. Originally this museum was a station which later was transformed into this awe-inspiring structure. It not only has a gallery but also restaurants, cafés, seminar and meeting rooms, exhibition halls and much more within its premises. They also hold film festivals, concerts, and shows and guided tours for students as well as adults of all ages. It basically strives to revive and promote art and infuse it in our daily lives. Works by famous and prominent artists are on display throughout the year. So come and be enthralled! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dave Ortiz 2008 |
 Photo: Panos Ipeirotis |
 Photo: Gaby Kaminsky |
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 Photo: Cecilia Pensini |
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 Photo: DougToppin |
 Photo: Christian Meichtry |
 Photo: Richard Rijnders |
 Photo: JOEY CHIU |
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 Photo: Phil & Jenny Reece |
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Temporary exhibitions only |
19 Rue de Vaugirard Paris 75006 +33 1 4234 2595 http://www.museeduluxembourg.fr musee.du.luxembourg@senat.fr |
Located near the Palais du Luxembourg, this is one of Paris's finest museums. The Musée du Luxembourg originally had a permanent collection of 19th century sculptures and paintings. Today however, the gallery holds only temporary exhibitions. Call up for details about the different programs, which are decided by the Ministry of Culture and the Senate. The Museum also extends discounts to large groups. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Leslie Melvin |
A fine collection |
Jardin de la Mairie 20, cours d'Albret Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33000 +33 556 10 2056 http://www.mairie-bordeaux.fr/... musbxa@mairie-bordeaux.fr |
Bordeaux's museum of fine arts was founded in 1801 by Napoleon Bonaparte. In 1829, the curator managed to obtain a collection of 280 paintings comprising works from Italy, Belgium, Germany and Holland. The Dutch paintings elevated the city's public collection to one of the finest in the country. The north and south wings of the building were renovated in 1994. They are now home to the French and foreign schools of art from the 16th to the 18th century – most noteworthy are exhibits from the Italian and Dutch schools as well as some 19th and 20th-century works ranging from the Romantic to the Impressionist. The museum also contains a library, an information centre, a photo lab and a shop selling postcards and prints. Admission EUR4; free first Sunday of every month. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christine Lee |
Picasso and More |
13 Avenue du Président Wilson Paris 75116 +33 (0)1 4723 5401 / +33 (0)1 4723 3886 http://www.palaisdetokyo.com info@palaisdetokyo.com |
Also known as the Museum of Modern Art, this museum consists primarily of two sections. It has an unmatchable selection of work from the early twentieth century. The impressive list of artists includes Vlaminck, Zadkine, Picasso and Braque. Check out the division, which highlights the story of electricity. Works by contemporary and experimental artists are also displayed here. There is also a division devoted to music and photography. Once you're done touring the museum, stop by the book store. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Fralick |
 Photo: Paul Rettberg |
 Photo: Jennifer Rigg |
 Photo: Chris Stelly |
 Photo: Robin Fogerty |
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 Photo: Mohamed Marwen Meddah |
 Photo: zhizhong.lee |
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Stunning collection of 1950s art to present day |
Avenue de Saint Sébastien Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 6300 +33 4 9362 6162 http://www.mamac-nice.org/ mamac@ville-nice.fr |
An architectural triumph, this building's Carrara marble towers are linked with glass footbridges and at the top, a terrace-cum-walkway (known as the Jardin d'Eden) gives visitors a bird's-eye view of the city. Works from the 1950's to the present day are permanently on show, including some fine Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein Pop Art pieces. Temporary exhibitions and the 'Ecole du Louvre' lecture series are held here (November to April) as well as 10 art video screenings on average per year. Excellent museum shop on the ground floor. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marijana Bilic |
Exceptional collections |
60 Boulevard Risso Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côted'Azur 6300 +33 4 9713 4680 http://www.mhnnice.org museum.histoire-naturelle@ville-nice.fr |
The natural history museum in Nice was closed for many years and only reopened in December 2002. It has an impresive collection of zoological, geological and botanical specimens from the Mediterranean, including 200,000 fossils, 40,000 shells, and 7,000 birds. The museum has made its permanent collection more interactive, with audio-visual and light-sound effects. Temporary exhibits take place regularly, and real fans will want to request access to the vast museum research library. Guided tours are every Wednesday at 3p. Entry is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: imagesbymonroe |
History of the famous cathedral |
10 Rue du Cloître-Notre-Dame Paris 75004 +33 (0)1 4325 4292 http://www.cathedraledeparis.c... |
A stone throw from the cathedral Notre-Dame, this small museum is highly recommended to visitors keen on learning more about this monument. Exhibited here are remains from the Gallo-Roman and late Middle-Ages periods discovered from archaeological digs under the present site as well as drawings, plans and engravings, which reveal the mysteries of the construction of this famous religious building. Several documents retrace the various development stages of the cathedral, others testify to the great historical events witnessed by it. Admission: EUR 2, concessions EUR 1, children EUR 1 Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ken Horn |
 Photo: Flávio Cruvinel Bran |
 Photo: mayushe |
 Photo: ALLISON JONES |
 Photo: Conor McGowan |
Home to Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo |
34 Quai du Louvre Entrée principale: Pyramide & Cour Napoléon Paris 75001 +33 (0)1 40 20 50 50 http://www.louvre.fr/llv/commu... http://www.louvre.fr/llv/contacts/detail_contact.jsp?CONTENT%3C%3Ecnt_id=10134198673229748&CURRENT_L |
Only a few people know that the third largest museum worldwide used to be the main residence of French kings and emperors for six centuries. The Old Fortress was erected in 1190 under the reign of King Philippe Auguste to protect the kingdom from the invasion of northern tribes (the Vikings). During the 14th century, the palace was extended under Charles V and became from time to time a royal residence. The greatest changes in the original palace were made under King François I. The medieval Grosse Tour was destroyed and replaced by a sumptuous palace, still considered a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. In 1594, Henri IV decided to build a passage between the Tuileries Palace and Louvre Palace, still known as the "Great Gallery". The "Cour Carrée" was part of a vast program conducted under Louis XIII and Louis XIV to embellish the king's residence and is a symbol of the classical period. After Louis XIV moved to Versailles, the Louvre knew a static period. The most recent construction is the Glass Pyramid erected by Leoh Ming Pei under French President Mitterrand, which is now the main entrance to the museum. With 35000 pieces and a surface of about 740000 sq. ft., the Louvre cannot be taken in in one day. The museum comprises eight departments: Eastern and Middle-Eastern Antiquities including treasures from Mesopotamia, Syria or Iran dating back to the Neolithic period; Egyptian Antiquities, Greek, Roman and Etruscan Antiquities dating from 6000 BC to 600 AD; Islamic Art, Sculptures, Decorative Art which includes among other pieces, famous Empress Eugénie's and Louis XV's coronation crowns; Paintings from 13th century to 1848 and Prints and Drawings (viewed by appointment). Besides famous Da Vinci's Mona Lisa and Veronese's Wedding Feast at Cana, you will admire paintings from Italian Renaissance (Titian, Raphael, etc), masterpieces of Dutch Painters like Rubens, Van Eyck as well as Vermeer's Lacemaker. Also, very famous among French people, don't forget Dürer's Self-Portrait, Delacroix's Liberté Guidant le Peuple or David's Coronation of Napoleon. Among sculptures, in addition to Venus de Milo and Winged Victory of Samothrace, pay a tribute to Michelangelo's Slaves. Insider's tips: bring some patience and buy your tickets online to escape the long lines. Also, come back at night to see the Pyramids illuminated! Admission:EUR 8,50. For lectures, movies and music, consult the Auditorium's program. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pedro Vidigal |
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Art Meets Anthropology |
37 Quai Branly Portail Debilly Paris 75007 + 33 (0)1 5661 7000 http://www.quaibranly.fr/ |
If you are curious about non-Western cultures, go to Musée du Quai Branly, which made its debut in 2006. Its location alongside the Seine River and near the Eiffel Tower is exceptional. The permanent collection includes a selection of over 300,000 objects coming from various part of the world. The museum is divided into four sections, each related to a different area: America, Africa, Asia and Australasia. Admire the sculptures and masks from African or South-American civilizations. Among the 8000 music instruments, take a look at the flutes from New Guinea or tom-toms from Mali and Senegal. Extraordinary textile pieces like Chinese palanquin, shaman coats from Central-America or Asian tapestry will enchant you. If you have some time left, hang out in the garden before concluding your visit. Entrance is about EUR 8,50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tanakamura |
 Photo: Pietro Passarelli |
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 Photo: beatrix kiddo |
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 Photo: Melissa Quintanilha |
 Photo: Geordie Jesus |
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Emperor's Final Resting Place |
Esplanade des Invalides 7th Arrondissement Paris, Île-de-France +45 55 92 30 |
Napoleon Bonaparte (b.1769) died in exile on the Isle of St. Helena in 1821. Apparently the French thought better of him after his death and in 1840 his remains were returned to France and this magnificent memorial that was built between 1843-53 now serves as his final resting place. Visitors can observe the giant sarcophagus (13 x 6.5 x 14.25). The layout has a total of five gigantic blocks. Along the walls is etched a chronicle of Napoleon's victories that add counter-point to the grandeur of the vault. Napoleon's Tomb sets in Les Invalides that was built by Louis XIV originally as a hospital for injured soldiers. On the grounds is also the Musee de l'Armee, the French war museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chad Pavliska |
 Photo: Ross Volenec |
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 Photo: Eduardo Mills |
 Photo: Ted Devro |
 Photo: Lidyanne Alves |
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 Photo: Robert Knight |
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The meaning of life |
57 Rue Cuvier Paris 75005 +33 1 4079 5479 http://www.mnhn.fr montfort@mnhn.fr |
Be it scientific, cultural or educational, this 350-year-old museum has something for everyone! Located in the heart of the Jardin des Plantes botanical gardens, it has dinosaur and whale skeletons, a stuffed rhinoceros dated from Louis XVI's reign, minerals and giant crystals, numerous insects, and everything you could ever want to know about the history of the botanical world. The museums centrepiece, the Grande Galerie de l'Evolution, is a mine of information about the evolution of different species, the relationship between man and nature and problems related to over -population and pollution. All this at the rate of EUR6 for adults. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: hoopoethepilgrim |
Contemporary art collection |
Avenue de Saint-Sébastien Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain Nice, Alpes-Côte d'Azur 6300 +33 (0)4 9362 6162 http://www.mamac-nice.org lesamisdumamac@yahoo.fr |
Niki de Saint-Phalle donated her private art collection of 170 works that include 63 paintings and sculptures, 18 engravings, 40 lithographs, 54 serigraphs, and many original documents, to the Nice Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain in 2001. This collection is one of France's major art exhibitions. Her most famous sculpture is titled 'Nanas', a big, bold and colorful representation of a woman. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jean-Marie LAFON |
Underground expedition |
93 Quai d'Orsay Paris 75007 +33 (0)1 4705 1029 |
The idea of visiting the sewers of a major city may not seem very appealing at first. Nevertheless, it is an original way to discover part of Paris foundations. With over two kilometres of galleries, the museum presents an exhibition about the city water system through a historical approach of the sewer's evolution. A display of machines and models illustrate the techniques used through the ages to deal with the water cycle. The museum also presents the way manpower was involved in its maintenance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Travis Young |
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It is worth it! |
12 Passage Meunier Saint Denis La Seine-Saint-Denis 93200 +33 1 4809 2140 http://www.paris-walks.com paris@paris-walks.com |
Paris Walks have experienced professional guides who speak multiple languages. Be assured of a detailed sightseeing itinerary and do book well in advance as these tours are very popular with the tourists. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Brandt |
Pablo's soul |
Rue de Thorigny 5, rue de Thorigny Paris 75003 +33 1 4271 2521 http://www.musee-picasso.fr |
Born in Spain, Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) settled in France after fleeing from Franco's régime. Even though he rarely returned to his native country, most of his paintings reflect his Andalusian origins. On the painter's death, his descendants left many of his works to the French state to pay for death duties. It is partly thanks to these works that the museum was founded in the hôtel Salé, originally designed by the architect Jean Boullier in 1656 for Aubert Fontenay, a collector specialising in the salt tax. Inside the museum, visitors follow the style changes of the great master and admire the creations from his blue, pink and cubist periods. Admission: adults 30F (EUR 4.57), 18-25 yrs & Sundays 20F (EUR 3.04), under-18s free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christine Welter |
 Photo: Christine Welter |
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Meet the Thinker |
79 Rue de Varenne Paris 75007 +33 1 4418 6110 http://www.musee-rodin.fr/ |
This is where Auguste Rodin spent the last years of his life, from 1908 to 1917. Since then, his superb sculptures and private art collection have been housed here. There are a number of sculptures in the garden, including his best-known piece, the Thinker. Trees provide welcome shade and the benches placed beneath make these peaceful surroundings the perfect spot for meditation and relaxation. An annex to this museum - the Villa des Brillants, which the artist bought in 1895 - is located in Meudon. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marc Aaron Melzer |
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 Photo: Roy |
 Photo: Anthea Buys |
 Photo: Nicolas Elizaga |
 Photo: Michael E. Cooper |
 Photo: Arnisto.com |
 Photo: Roland Hesz |
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Vineyard, a taste of France! |
Rue des Eaux Paris 75016 +33 1 4525 6326 http://www.museeduvinparis.com info@museeduvinparis.com |
Located in the vaulted cellars of the Abbaye de Passy, the Wine Museum relates the broad outline of the history of wine through France and its famous well-known wine-producing areas such as Burgundy and Gironde. In this very abbey, in the heart of Paris, monks produced their own wine in the 14th century by cultivating a vineyard on the Chaillot Hill. Today, these cellars exhibit old bottles, wax models, vats and other tools used for winemaking. At the end of the visit, enjoy a glass of wine accompanied by some foie gras (goose liver pâté). Admission: Adults EUR6.50; Seniors EUR5.90; Children and Students EUR5.70. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Franck Lassagne |
 Photo: AndrewNorman |
 Photo: Mark Vitullo |
The third dimension in cubism |
100 bis Rue d'Assas Paris 75006 +33 1 5542 7720 http://www.paris.fr/musees/zad... musee.zadkine@paris.fr |
This museum is the former studio of the sculptor Ossip Zadkine and comprises around 100 pieces bequeathed by his widow. Of Russian origins, the artist established himself in Paris in 1909. Disappointed by the academic education he received in London and Paris, he turned to other sources of inspiration. Rodin, Roman and Gothic statues, as well as African art became models in his quest to adapt to the third dimension of the aesthetic principles of cubism. Rather than offering revolutionary discoveries, he preferred to use the traditional methods to create his masterpieces. Admission to the collections is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michael DeCarufel |
 Photo: AlxVuk |
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