Musee d'Art et d'Histoire du Judaisme

The Musée d'Art et d'Histoire du Judaïsme (MAHJ) is a cultural institution located in the historic Hôtel de Saint-Aignan in the Marais, Paris's traditional Jewish quarter. The museum explores Jewish life, art, and history from the Middle Ages to the present, with a focus on France and Europe. Permanent collections include ceremonial objects, paintings by artists like Chagall and Modigliani, and documents related to the Dreyfus Affair and the Holocaust. The building itself is a masterpiece: a 17th-century mansion with a grand courtyard and vaulted cellars. Visitors can see a reconstructed synagogue interior and a room dedicated to Jewish music. The museum is less crowded than major Parisian attractions, offering a contemplative experience. Temporary exhibitions often highlight contemporary Jewish artists or historical themes. The museum shop sells books and Judaica.

Don't miss

• Paintings by Marc Chagall and Amedeo Modigliani
• The Dreyfus Affair exhibition with original documents
• Reconstructed wooden synagogue from Italy
• Ceremonial objects like Torah crowns and Hanukkah lamps
• Temporary exhibitions on Jewish themes

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Musee d'Art et d'Histoire du Judaisme

Cheapest way inPast and Present of Budapest Jewish District Tour4.9★ · 293 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$3 per personSee dates →Most bookedLouvre Museum Masterpieces Guided Tour with Access4.5★ · 12,899 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$74 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleMarais District and Jewish Quarter Exclusive Guided Walking Tour4.9★ · 202 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$60 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Allow extra time for the temporary exhibition, which is often included in the ticket.
• Photography is allowed without flash in permanent collections.
• Pick up a free map at the entrance to navigate the rooms.
• The museum has a café, but the Marais has many kosher restaurants nearby.

A bit of history

The Hôtel de Saint-Aignan was built in 1644 for the Duke of Saint-Aignan. It became a Jewish cultural center in the 20th century. The museum opened in 1998, following the renovation of the building.