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

Explore Montpellier's history through art, furniture, and artifacts at the Musée du Vieux Montpellier, housed in the historic Hôtel de Varennes.

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The Musée du Vieux Montpellier, located in the historic Hôtel de Varennes, showcases a diverse collection of artifacts related to Montpellier's history from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. Though the museum is currently closed with plans to reopen in 2028, it remains a significant cultural landmark.

A brief summary to Musée du Vieux Montpellier

Local tips

  • Check the official Montpellier city website for updates on the museum's reopening in 2028.
  • Explore Place Pétrarque, where the museum is located, to admire the architecture of the Hôtel de Varennes.
  • Visit the Musée Fabre to see more of Montpellier's art collections while the Musée du Vieux Montpellier is closed.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Place de la Comédie, a central point in Montpellier, walk north along Rue de la Loge. Continue onto Place Jean Jaurès, then turn left onto Rue de l'Ancien Courrier. Turn right onto Place Pétrarque. The Musée du Vieux Montpellier is located on this square. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and offers a pleasant exploration of the city center.

  • Public Transport

    The Musée du Vieux Montpellier is easily accessible by tram. Take tram lines 1, 2, or 4 and disembark at the 'Comédie' stop. From there, follow the walking directions above. A single tram ticket costs €1.60. Alternatively, tram line 4 stops at 'Peyrou – Arc de Triomphe', a slightly longer walk but passing the scenic Arc de Triomphe.

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Discover more about Musée du Vieux Montpellier

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.

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