Musée du Vieux Montpellier: A Glimpse into the City's Past

Housed in the Hôtel de Varennes, a building that evolved from several private houses constructed between the 13th and 17th centuries, the Musée du Vieux Montpellier offers a unique glimpse into the city's past. Founded in 1970 as an annex to the Musée Fabre, it became independently managed by the municipal archives in 1985. The Hôtel de Varennes itself was listed as a historical monument in 2018, recognizing its architectural significance.The museum's collections encompass a wide array of objects that illuminate the city's rich heritage, including objets d'art, coins and medals, engravings, and furniture. Among its prized possessions is the 'Black Virgin,' a 13th-century Madonna and Child sculpture crafted from polychrome wood. Other notable items include a 17th-century cabinet made by a Montpellier carpenter and stones from the Bastille, recovered by Montpellier citizens during the French Revolution.The museum also features beautifully preserved 18th-century woodwork, French-style ceilings, and local stone flooring, creating an immersive atmosphere. Visitors can explore the "cabinet doré des consuls", a large wardrobe made in the 17th century, and the hall with the statue of the Virgin and Child. The museum also displays portraits of notable Montpellier personalities and works by regional artists.While the Musée du Vieux Montpellier is currently closed with plans to reopen in 2028, its collections are being carefully managed and some items may be returned to their original institutions.