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Musée Granet: A Treasure Trove of Art in Aix-en-Provence

Discover masterpieces from antiquity to the 20th century at Aix-en-Provence's Musée Granet, home to works by Cézanne, Rembrandt, Picasso, and more, including the Planque Collection.

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The Musée Granet, located in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, is a celebrated art museum showcasing a diverse collection spanning from antiquity to the 20th century. Housed in a stunning 17th-century building, the museum features works by French, Flemish, and Italian masters, including Rembrandt, Rubens, Ingres, and Granet himself. The museum also boasts an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including pieces by Cézanne, Giacometti, Picasso, and Léger. With its rich history, varied collections, and engaging exhibitions, the Musée Granet offers a captivating journey through the world of art, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts exploring Provence. Don't miss the Granet XXe annex, home to the Jean Planque collection, for an even deeper dive into modern masterpieces. The museum also provides audio guides in multiple languages and guided tours.

A brief summary to Musée Granet

  • Tuesday 12 pm-6 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-6 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-6 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-6 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-6 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free admission to the permanent collections.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events during your visit.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore both the main museum and the Granet XXe annex.
  • Take advantage of the audio guides available in multiple languages for a more in-depth experience.
  • If visiting during the 'Cézanne au Jas de Bouffan' exhibition (June 28 - October 12, 2025), book tickets in advance online or at the Aix-en-Provence Tourist Office.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Cours Mirabeau, walk south along Rue Cardinale. The Musée Granet will be on your left at Place Saint-Jean de Malte, approximately a 5-minute walk. Note that access to Place Saint-Jean de Malte from Rue d'Italie may be closed during the 'Cézanne au Jas de Bouffan' exhibition (June 28 - October 12, 2025), requiring a slight detour.

  • Public Transport

    From the Aix-en-Provence Centre train station or the Gare Routière (bus station), take bus lines 5, 6, 13, 16, or 25 to the Saint-Jean stop. The Musée Granet is a short walk from the bus stop. A single bus fare is approximately €2.

  • Driving

    If driving, parking is available at the Carnot parking lot, a 4-minute walk from the museum. Parking fees typically range from €2.60 per hour.

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Discover more about Musée Granet

The Musée Granet, inaugurated in 1838, stands as a cornerstone of Aix-en-Provence's cultural landscape. Housed in the former priory of the Knights of Malta, the museum's very structure whispers tales of centuries past, setting the stage for the artistic journey within. The museum owes its existence to François-Marius Granet, a local painter whose generous donation of his personal collection formed the museum's initial core. Over the years, the Musée Granet has expanded significantly, incorporating works acquired by the city and enriched by further donations from collectors like Bourguignon de Fabregoules and Fernand Dol. The Musée Granet's collection is vast and varied, encompassing paintings, sculptures, drawings, and archaeological finds. The chronological arrangement allows visitors to trace the evolution of art from antiquity to the modern era. The archaeological section showcases regional finds, offering insights into the area's rich history dating back to Celto-Ligurian times. The sculpture gallery features works by renowned artists, including busts of prominent figures from Provence. The painting collection is particularly noteworthy, featuring French, Flemish, and Italian masters. Highlights include works by Rembrandt, Rubens, Van Dyck, and Ingres. The museum also dedicates significant space to Provençal artists, including its namesake, François-Marius Granet, showcasing his distinctive style and contributions to French art. The 19th-century French painting section features works by Delacroix and Courbet, providing a glimpse into the Romantic and Realist movements. However, the Musée Granet is perhaps best known for its connection to Paul Cézanne, Aix-en-Provence's most famous son. The museum holds a collection of Cézanne's paintings, representing different stages of his artistic development. While the permanent Cézanne collection is currently closed due to preparations for the "Cézanne au Jas de Bouffan" exhibition (June 28 - October 12, 2025), the museum's commitment to showcasing his work remains unwavering. This major exhibition promises an immersive exploration of Cézanne's artistic journey, focusing on his time at his family home, Jas de Bouffan. In 2011, the Musée Granet expanded its reach with the opening of Granet XXe, housed in the Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs. This annex showcases the Jean Planque Collection, a treasure trove of modern and contemporary art. Jean Planque, a Swiss painter, dealer, and collector, amassed an impressive collection of over 300 works, including paintings, drawings, and sculptures by masters such as Cézanne, Monet, Van Gogh, Picasso, Braque, Léger, de Staël, and Dubuffet. The Granet XXe provides a dedicated space to explore these modern masterpieces, offering a comprehensive overview of 20th-century art. The Musée Granet is committed to making art accessible to all. The museum has been awarded the Tourism and Disability label, recognizing its efforts to accommodate visitors with disabilities. The museum offers tactile interpretation stations for visually impaired visitors and provides audio guides and guided tours in multiple languages. Throughout the year, the Musée Granet hosts temporary exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and concerts, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for all visitors. These events provide opportunities to delve deeper into specific artists, movements, or themes, enriching the understanding and appreciation of art. The Musée Granet is more than just a repository of art; it is a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates the artistic heritage of Aix-en-Provence and beyond. Whether you are a seasoned art aficionado or a curious traveler, the Musée Granet offers a captivating journey through the world of art, leaving you inspired and enriched.

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