Paris, popularly known as "The City of Lights" is a cultural epicentre renowned for its history, art and architecture. Among its many attractions, Paris has a remarkable array of museums that every visitor should consider exploring. Here are seven of the best museums that will appeal to history enthusiasts.
The Louvre is arguably the most famous museum in the world. Originally a royal palace, it became a public museum during the French Revolution and now houses an astonishing collection of over 38,000 works of art. The museum's most iconic piece is undoubtedly Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa," but it also features other masterpieces like the "Venus de Milo" and the "Winged Victory of Samothrace." The Louvre's vast collection spans ancient civilisations to the 19th century, offering an unparalleled journey through art history. The glass pyramid entrance, designed by I. M. Pei, has become an iconic museum symbol.
Housed in a former Beaux-Arts railway station, the Musée d'Orsay has an extensive 19th- and early 20th-century art collection. The collection includes works by famous Impressionist and post-Impressionist artists such as Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne. The building itself, with its grand architecture and giant clock overlooking the Seine, is a masterpiece.
The Centre Pompidou is one of the most avant-garde museums in Paris, both in its architecture and collections. Designed by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers, the building is famous for its "inside-out" design, with exposed pipes and ducts on the exterior. It is home to the National Museum of Modern Art, which boasts one of Europe's largest collections of modern and contemporary art. With works by artists like Picasso, Matisse, and Kandinsky and rotating exhibitions, the Centre Pompidou is a hub for contemporary culture and a must-visit for modern art enthusiasts.
Nestled in the Tuileries Gardens, the Musée de l'Orangerie is a miniature museum known for its remarkable Impressionist and post-Impressionist art collection. It is most famous for displaying Claude Monet's "Water Lilies" series, housed in two large oval rooms according to Monet's specifications. The museum also features works by Cézanne, Renoir and Picasso, making it a centre for lovers of early modern art.
Dedicated to the works of the French sculptor Auguste Rodin, the Musée Rodin is housed in the beautiful Hôtel Biron, an 18th-century mansion. The museum's collection includes some of Rodin's most famous sculptures, such as "The Thinker," "The Kiss" and "The Gates of Hell." The museum also features works by Camille Claudel, Rodin's student and lover. The surrounding gardens are dotted with sculptures, offering a peaceful retreat in the city's heart.
Located near the Eiffel Tower, the Musée du Quai Branly is dedicated to non-European art and culture. The museum's collection spans Africa, Asia, Oceania and the Americas, showcasing the rich diversity of human creativity across the globe. The museum's design by architect Jean Nouvel is a work of art, with gardens and a vertical plant wall. Explore artefacts ranging from tribal masks to ancient textiles.
The Petit Palais, built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, is an architectural gem that houses the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts. Its collection ranges from antiquity to the early 20th century, featuring works by artists such as Courbet, Monet and Cézanne. The building's Beaux-Arts architecture, with its grand staircase and dome, is a highlight. The Petit Palais also offers free admission to its permanent collections, making it an accessible and enriching experience for all visitors.