Musée du Luxembourg

The first French museum to open to the public in 1750, the Musée du Luxembourg became the first contemporary art museum in 1818. Initially set up in the Palais du Luxembourg, it closed between 1937 and 1979 after the Museum of Modern Art was built, before later reopening to the public.

Although it does not have any permanent collections, the building often hosts highly-anticipated exhibitions. The programme focuses on three main topics, relating to the history of its location: “The Renaissance in Europe”, “Art and Power” and “Palace, Gardens and Museum: the Luxembourg in the heart of Paris, capital of the arts”.

Its renovation, completed in autumn 2012 and steered by Shigeru Ban and Jean de Gastines, architects of the Centre Pompidou-Metz, gave rise to a new interior layout and a series of furniture made of tubes of recycled cardboard. After the exhibition, treat yourself to tea in the Angelina café/restaurant/tea room before strolling through the magnificent gardens.

Explore museums and monuments in Paris Region.