Musee D'art Moderne: A Hidden Art Treasure in Troyes
May 17, 2025
I spent nearly three hours exploring the museum's incredible collection of French modern art, spending most of my time in the Maurice Marinot glass art gallery. The museum's location in a historic episcopal palace made the entire experience feel like stepping back in time while simultaneously experiencing cutting-edge artistic expression.
A museum born from Lacoste clothing's success, the Musee D'art Moderne houses a stunning collection of French art inside a 16th-century episcopal palace. Discover how a fashion brand's global reach transformed into one of France's most unexpected art treasures.
Need-to-Know Info Before Visiting Musee D'art Moderne
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Musee D'art Moderne Address
5 Rue de la Paix, 10000 Troyes, France
Musee D'art Moderne Opening Hours
- 🕒 Tuesday-Sunday: 10 AM - 6 PM
- 🕒 Closed on Mondays
- 🕒 Last entry: 5:30 PM
How to get to Musee D'art Moderne
- 🚗 By car: Parking available near the museum
- 🚌 Public transport: Troyes City Bus Line 1 & 3
- 🚕 Rideshare: Uber and local taxi services available
What is Musee D'art Moderne known for?
- Located in a 16th-century episcopal palace with stunning architectural details
- Features extensive collection of French modern art from 1850-1950
- Showcases works by famous artists like Degas, Matisse, Picasso, and Modigliani
- Highlights include remarkable fauve paintings and glass art by Maurice Marinot
- Founded through donation by Lacoste entrepreneurs Pierre and Denise Lévy
What is Musee D'art Moderne in Troyes?
Tucked inside a historic 16th-century episcopal palace in Troyes, the Musee D'art Moderne stands as a testament to French art history. This museum isn't just another gallery - it's a carefully curated collection born from the success of Lacoste clothing. Art enthusiasts and casual travelers alike flock to see its remarkable collection of French paintings from 1850 to 1950, featuring works by legendary artists like Degas, Matisse, Picasso, and Modigliani. The museum's unique charm comes from its unexpected origin: a donation by Pierre and Denise Lévy, Lacoste entrepreneurs who transformed their clothing brand's success into a cultural gift for their hometown. Visitors can explore an impressive array of fauve paintings, intricate glass works by local artist Maurice Marinot, and stunning ceramic pieces. Located in the heart of Troyes, this museum offers a deep dive into a pivotal period of French modern art, housed within walls that have witnessed centuries of history. The building itself - a former episcopal palace - provides a stunning architectural backdrop that enhances the art experience, making each visit a journey through both artistic and architectural heritage.
Top things to do at Musee D'art Moderne
- Explore the dedicated Maurice Marinot gallery showcasing exceptional glass art and ceramics created by the local artist
- Discover the fauve painting collection spanning works from 1850 to 1950, featuring iconic pieces by Matisse and Picasso
- Take a guided tour of the historic 16th-century episcopal palace building, learning about its architectural transformation
- View the permanent collection highlighting works by renowned artists including Degas, Rodin, Modigliani, and Soutine
- Visit the museum's gift shop to purchase art books, postcards, and reproductions of featured artworks
- Attend special temporary exhibitions that rotate throughout the year, offering fresh perspectives on modern French art
Tickets
Entry to the Musee D'art Moderne costs 7 euros for adults, with reduced rates for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased online through the museum's official website or directly at the entrance. Free admission is available for children under 18 and local residents on the first Sunday of each month. Group discounts are available for parties of 10 or more people.
History of Musee D'art Moderne
- 16th-17th Century: Original building constructed as an episcopal palace in Troyes
- 1976: Pierre and Denise Lévy donate significant modern art collection to their hometown
- 1982: Museum officially opened by President François Mitterrand
- 2020: Underwent major renovation to modernize exhibition spaces
- 2025: Continues to be a key cultural institution showcasing French modern art
Tips for Visitors
- Allow 2-3 hours for a comprehensive museum visit
- Audio guides available in French and English for additional context
- Photography permitted without flash in most exhibition areas
- Wheelchair accessible with elevator between floors
- Museum café offers light refreshments and local French cuisine
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the museum
What are some interesting facts about Musee D'art Moderne?
- The museum's entire art collection was originally funded by the global success of Lacoste clothing's crocodile-logo shirts
- Maurice Marinot, a local glassmaker featured in the museum, was considered revolutionary for transforming glass from a craft into an art form
- The museum is housed in a 16th-century episcopal palace that survived multiple historical periods, making the building itself a significant artifact