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Musée des Tapisseries: A Woven History of Art and Spectacle

Discover exquisite 17th & 18th-century tapestries and theatrical arts in a historic palace. A cultural gem in the heart of Aix-en-Provence.

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Housed in the former Archbishop's Palace, the Musée des Tapisseries in Aix-en-Provence showcases a rich collection of 17th and 18th-century tapestries, alongside a fascinating exploration of stage arts. The museum offers a glimpse into the opulent world of French aristocracy and the evolution of theatrical design.

A brief summary to Musée des Tapisseries

Local tips

  • Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free admission to the Musée des Tapisseries and other city museums.
  • Check the museum's schedule for temporary exhibitions, which often showcase contemporary textile art or stage design.
  • Combine your visit with a performance at the Festival d'Aix-en-Provence, held in the palace courtyard during the summer.
  • Take your time to appreciate the intricate details and vibrant colors of the tapestries, some of which depict scenes from Don Quixote and Russian games.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Cours Mirabeau, Aix-en-Provence's main thoroughfare, walk north towards the Place de l'Hôtel de Ville (City Hall Square). Continue straight, passing the Hôtel de Ville on your left. Turn left onto Rue de l'Opéra, then turn right onto Place des Martyrs de la Résistance. The Musée des Tapisseries is located on this square, within the Archbishop's Palace. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From the Gare Routière (bus station), located near the city center, take any bus line that stops at the 'Hôtel de Ville' or 'Palais de Justice' stop. From either stop, walk to the Place des Martyrs de la Résistance. The Musée des Tapisseries is located on this square. A single bus ticket costs €1.10.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Aix-en-Provence. A taxi from the Aix-en-Provence city center to the Musée des Tapisseries will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic and the exact starting point. The ride is short, typically under 10 minutes.

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Discover more about Musée des Tapisseries

The Musée des Tapisseries, or Tapestry Museum, resides within the historic Palais de l'Archevêché (Archbishop's Palace) in Aix-en-Provence. Inaugurated in 1909, the museum's primary focus is the preservation and exhibition of an exceptional collection of antique tapestries. These tapestries, primarily from the 17th and 18th centuries, offer insight into the artistic tastes and craftsmanship of the era. The collection includes three main series: "Les Grotesques," inspired by Jean Berain's designs, "L'histoire de Don Quichotte," based on Charles Natoire's cartoons, and "Les Jeux russiens," after Jean-Baptiste Le Prince. These works, woven at the Royal Factory of Beauvais, exemplify the intricate detail and vibrant colors characteristic of the period. Since 1990, the museum has expanded its focus to include the performing arts. It now houses a collection of lyrical art heritage, mainly covering the years 1949-1996 of the Aix Festival, including costumes, stage elements, and models of sets and costumes designed by famous artists and scenographers. The Archbishop's Palace itself is a classified historical monument, with architectural elements reflecting different periods and occupants. Its courtyard serves as the venue for performances during the Festival d'Aix-en-Provence, an internationally renowned opera festival.

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