Background

Manufacture des Gobelins: A Royal Tapestry Legacy

Discover centuries of French tapestry-making at the Manufacture des Gobelins, a living museum where artisans continue royal traditions in Paris.

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The Manufacture des Gobelins is a historic tapestry factory in Paris, dating back to the 15th century. Best known as a royal factory that supplied the court of French monarchs, it continues to produce tapestries using centuries-old techniques. Visitors can witness artisans at work and explore temporary exhibitions.

A brief summary to Manufacture des Gobelins

  • Tuesday 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

  • Book your guided tour in advance, as they are only available on specific days and times.
  • Check the Galerie des Gobelins schedule for temporary exhibitions of tapestries and furniture.
  • Note that guided tours are primarily in French.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking on cobblestone courtyards and climbing stairs.
  • Photography is prohibited in the workshops to respect the privacy of the artisans.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Manufacture des Gobelins is easily accessible via the Paris Metro. Take Line 7 to the 'Les Gobelins' station. Upon exiting the station, walk north on Avenue des Gobelins. The Manufacture will be a short walk away at No. 42. A single metro ticket costs €2.10.

  • Bus

    Several bus lines stop near the Manufacture des Gobelins, including lines 24, 47, 57, 64, 83, and 91. Get off at the 'Les Gobelins' stop and walk a short distance to the Manufacture. A single bus ticket costs €2.10.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Paris. A taxi ride from Gare du Nord to the Manufacture des Gobelins typically takes around 15 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs approximately €12-€15. Note that there may be surcharges for luggage and multiple passengers.

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Discover more about Manufacture des Gobelins

The Manufacture des Gobelins, located in the 13th arrondissement of Paris, is more than just a museum; it's a living testament to French craftsmanship and a piece of Parisian history. The story begins in the 15th century when the Gobelin family established a dye works, renowned for its scarlet color, on the banks of the Bièvre River. In 1662, Jean-Baptiste Colbert, under Louis XIV, transformed the site into the Manufacture Royale des Meubles de la Couronne, a royal factory for furniture and tapestries. For centuries, the Manufacture des Gobelins has produced exquisite tapestries and carpets for royal residences and public buildings. Today, it operates under the French Ministry of Culture, continuing to create modern tapestries using traditional methods. The complex includes workshops, a restoration center, and the Galerie des Gobelins, which hosts temporary exhibitions. A guided tour offers a glimpse into the workshops where skilled artisans meticulously weave tapestries using techniques passed down through generations. The dedication, patience, and skill required to create these works of art are truly astounding. The factory also houses a highly competitive school that teaches weaving, ensuring the continuation of this unique craft.

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