Museum
Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Orléans
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Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Orléans is a prestigious art museum housed in the former bishop's palace, adjacent to the cathedral. Founded in 1797, it holds one of France's most significant collections of European art, spanning from the 15th to the 20th century. The museum's strength lies in its French paintings, including works by Nicolas Poussin, Antoine Watteau, and Eugène Delacroix, as well as an impressive array of Italian, Flemish, and Dutch masters. The collection also features sculptures, decorative arts, and a notable cabinet of drawings. Visitors can wander through grand salons and galleries, admiring works from the Renaissance to modern times. The museum's intimate scale allows for a focused experience without overwhelming crowds. Its location in the historic center makes it easy to combine with a visit to the cathedral. Art lovers will appreciate the depth and quality of the collection, which includes rare pieces like the 'Mona Lisa' copy by Leonardo's workshop.
Don't miss
- View the 16th-century 'Mona Lisa' copy by Leonardo da Vinci's workshop.
- Admire works by French masters like Poussin, Watteau, and Delacroix.
- Explore the collection of Italian Renaissance paintings, including works by Veronese.
- See the 17th-century Dutch and Flemish still lifes and landscapes.
- Don't miss the sculpture gallery with works from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Orléans
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
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