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Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts: A Journey Through Artistic History

Discover centuries of European art at Bordeaux's premier fine arts museum, home to masterpieces by Rubens, Delacroix, and Picasso, and a vibrant hub for cultural enrichment.

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The Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts, established in 1801, stands as one of France's largest art galleries outside of Paris. Housed in a stunning building near the Hôtel de Ville, its collection spans from the 15th to the 20th centuries, showcasing European art with a focus on French, Flemish, and Dutch masters. Visitors can explore masterpieces by artists like Rubens, Delacroix, Renoir, and Picasso, alongside works by prominent Bordeaux artists. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions in the Galerie des Beaux-Arts, offering a dynamic and enriching cultural experience. With its diverse collection and commitment to accessibility, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts

  • Monday 11 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-6 pm
  • Friday 11 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on the first Sunday of the month (except in July and August) for free admission to the permanent collections.
  • Take advantage of the visioguides in French Sign Language (LSF) with French subtitles, available upon request at the welcome desk.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events to enhance your visit.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Jardin Public or a visit to the Cathédrale Saint-André.
  • Utilize the TBM app for easy navigation via Bordeaux's public transport system.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Musée des Beaux-Arts is easily accessible via Bordeaux's tram system. Take tram lines A or B and disembark at the Hôtel de Ville station, which is a short walk from the museum. Alternatively, several bus lines stop near the Jardin Public, also within easy walking distance. A single 'Ticket 1 voyage' costs €1.80 and is valid for one hour of travel on trams, buses, and river shuttles. Consider purchasing a 'Ticket 10 trips' for €14.50 if you plan to use public transport frequently. The 'CityPass' includes unlimited transport and free access to several museums.

  • Walking

    From the Place de la Comédie or the Quinconces, the museum is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head south along Cours du Chapeau Rouge, then turn east onto Cours d'Albret. The museum will be on your left. This route offers a pleasant stroll through the city center, passing by shops and cafes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Bordeaux. A short ride from the city center to the museum will typically cost between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and the specific starting point. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before beginning your journey.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that parking near the museum can be limited. Several parking garages are located within a 10-15 minute walk, including Q-Park Auditorium and Parking Tourny. Expect to pay around €3 - €4 per hour for parking. Two parking spaces reserved for persons with reduced mobility are available near the Musée (south wing).

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Discover more about Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux, a cornerstone of the city's cultural landscape, invites visitors on a captivating journey through the history of European art. Founded in 1801 by the painter Pierre Lacour, it proudly holds the title of one of the largest fine arts museums in France, second only to the Louvre in Paris. Its extensive collection, encompassing paintings, sculptures, and drawings, spans from the 15th to the 20th centuries, offering a rich and diverse panorama of artistic expression. The museum's origins trace back to the French Revolution when many artworks were seized from religious institutions and private collections. These revolutionary confiscations formed the foundation of the museum's initial holdings, which were first displayed in a library and later in a room of the town hall. As the collection grew, a dedicated building became necessary, leading to the construction of the current neoclassical structure between 1875 and 1881. The Galerie des Beaux-Arts, intended for temporary exhibitions, was added later, between 1936 and 1939. The permanent collection is thoughtfully divided between the museum's two wings. The south wing showcases art from the 16th to the 18th centuries, featuring Italian Renaissance masterpieces by Perugino, Veronese and Titian, Flemish paintings by Rubens and Van Dyck, and works from the Dutch school. French art from the 17th and 18th centuries is represented by Courrège and Chardin. The north wing is dedicated to the 19th and 20th centuries, highlighting French masters such as Delacroix, Boudin, Renoir, and Toulouse-Lautrec. Modern art is well represented, with works by Braque, Dufy, Masson, Matisse, and Picasso. The museum also proudly displays works by prominent Bordeaux artists, including André Lhote, Albert Marquet, and Odilon Redon, emphasizing the region's artistic heritage. Among the museum's most prized possessions are paintings seized during the French Revolution, including Peter Paul Rubens' "Martyrdom of Saint George." Other notable works include Hendrick Ter Brugghen's "A Singer Accompanying Himself on the Lute," Giambattista Pittoni's "Eliezer and Rebecca," and Eugène Delacroix's "Greece on the Ruins of Missolonghi." The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux is not merely a repository of art; it is a dynamic cultural institution committed to engaging with its visitors. The museum offers a variety of educational programs, guided tours, and workshops for all ages, fostering a deeper appreciation for art and its historical context. Special attention is given to accessibility, with facilities and programs designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities. The museum's commitment to accessibility extends beyond physical accommodations. It offers visioguides in French Sign Language, subtitled in French, to explore the permanent collections. The museum also provides simplified visit booklets for the permanent collections and temporary exhibitions, making art accessible to a wider audience. Visiting the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux is an immersive experience that transcends mere observation. It is an opportunity to connect with the past, to engage with the present, and to contemplate the future of art. The museum's diverse collection, its commitment to education and accessibility, and its vibrant cultural program make it a must-see destination for art lovers of all backgrounds. Beyond the permanent collection, the Galerie des Beaux-Arts hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase a wide range of artistic styles and themes. These exhibitions provide a platform for contemporary artists and offer fresh perspectives on historical art movements. The combination of permanent and temporary exhibitions ensures that there is always something new and exciting to discover at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux. The museum's location in the heart of Bordeaux makes it easily accessible to visitors. Situated near the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) and the Cathédrale Saint-André, it is within walking distance of many other major attractions. The museum is also well-served by public transportation, with tram and bus stops nearby. The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux is more than just a museum; it is a living testament to the power of art to inspire, to educate, and to connect us to our shared human heritage. Whether you are a seasoned art connoisseur or a curious newcomer, a visit to this remarkable institution is sure to be a rewarding and unforgettable experience.

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