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Musée des Explorations du Monde: A Journey Through Time and Culture

Explore global art and history at Cannes' Musée des Explorations du Monde, nestled in a medieval castle with panoramic views of the French Riviera.

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Housed in a medieval castle built by Lérins monks, the Musée des Explorations du Monde in Cannes offers a multifaceted journey through time and culture. Perched atop the Suquet hill, it provides panoramic views of the city, the Bay of Cannes, and the Lérins Islands. Its diverse collections include primitive art, Mediterranean antiquities, and musical instruments from around the world.

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Local tips

  • Visit on the first Sunday of the month from November to March for free admission.
  • Be prepared for a moderately steep, 10-15 minute walk uphill from the city center.
  • Check out the temporary exhibitions for a varied cultural experience.
  • Climb the tower for panoramic views of Cannes and the coastline.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall), walk uphill towards Le Suquet, following signs for the Musée des Explorations du Monde. The path winds through the old town's narrow streets, passing the Église Notre-Dame d'Espérance. The museum is located at the Place de la Castre, at the top of the hill. Be prepared for a moderately steep walk of approximately 10-15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Suquet Shuttle from the Cannes city center to Le Suquet. The shuttle stops near the Hôtel de Ville and drops you off close to the Musée des Explorations du Monde. A single ride on the Suquet Shuttle costs €1.50, or you can purchase a day pass for unlimited rides on this shuttle for €1.50. Alternatively, several regular bus lines (1, 2, 662, 7, A) stop within a short walking distance (Hibert - Clémenceau or Le Riou stops), costing €1.70 for a single ticket.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from the Cannes train station or the Croisette to the Musée des Explorations du Monde will cost approximately €15-€20, depending on traffic. Be aware that taxis may have difficulty navigating the narrow streets of Le Suquet, and you may be dropped off at the base of the hill, requiring a short uphill walk.

  • Driving

    Driving directly to the Musée des Explorations du Monde is not recommended due to extremely limited parking in Le Suquet. The closest parking is at the Suquet Forville car park (13 Rue des Tambourinaires), approximately a 5-minute walk from the museum. Parking fees at Suquet Forville are around €2.60 per hour. Cannes Town Hall provides drivers with 2166 parking spaces split into 2 zones on the highway, all with the first half hour free and just 3 € for 2 hours. On top of that the city has 7000 spaces (first hour free) in 17 car parks and 3500 motorcycle parking bays.

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The Musée des Explorations du Monde, formerly known as the Musée de la Castre, is a cultural gem nestled in Cannes' historic Le Suquet district. The museum is located within the remains of a medieval castle erected by Lérins monks. This unique setting provides a stunning backdrop for a diverse collection of art and artifacts, offering visitors a journey through time and across cultures. The museum's collection is a testament to the diverse interests and global perspective of its founders. Visitors can explore a wide array of artifacts, ranging from primitive art and Mediterranean antiquities to an impressive assortment of musical instruments from around the world. The museum's holdings are divided into several key sections, each offering a unique glimpse into different cultures and historical periods. One of the most captivating sections is dedicated to primitive art, showcasing objects from Oceania, the Himalayas, the Arctic, and pre-Columbian America. These artifacts provide insight into the artistic traditions and cultural practices of societies far removed from the European context. The Mediterranean antiquities section features artifacts from ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt, offering a glimpse into the civilizations that shaped the course of Western history. Music lovers will be enthralled by the museum's collection of musical instruments from around the globe. From delicate stringed instruments to elaborate percussion devices, this section showcases the diverse sounds and musical traditions of different cultures. The museum also houses a collection of landscape paintings from 1830 to post-Impressionism by Provençal artists. These paintings capture the beauty of the region and provide a glimpse into the artistic movements of the 19th century. The museum also presents temporary exhibitions. Climb the 109 steps of the square tower dating from the 12th century, and discover a magnificent 360° panorama of the Bay of Cannes.

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