Historical exhibition guide

Primordial Water at the Louvre: An Exhibition Exploring Water in Ancient Mesopotamia

The Louvre Museum in Paris will host Primordial Water from May 20, 2026, to March 15, 2027. This exhibition explores the vital role of water in ancient Mesopotamian civilizations and will be displayed in the Oriental Antiquities Department galleries. Through archaeological artifacts, mythological stories, and the earliest hydraulic structures, visitors will delve into the development of irrigation systems and discover how Mesopotamian societies organized their landscapes around this crucial resource.

Unicorns! : The Cluny Museum in Paris showcases an exhibition delving into the myth of the legendary creature

In Paris, the Musée de Cluny – National Museum of the Middle Ages – is showcasing the exhibition Unicorn!, dedicated to the legendary creature that has captivated the medieval imagination and lore. Running from March 10 to July 12, 2026, this major exhibition brings together nearly a hundred pieces from around the world to explore the symbolism, legends, and centuries-old fascination with the unicorn—spanning medieval art, mythology, and spirituality.

A free, immersive exhibit explores the 1867 Universal Exhibition and the evolution of photography in Paris

Dive into the heart of the 1867 World's Fair through the lens of photography, from November 25, 2026, to February 22, 2027. Experience this engaging and free exhibit at the National Archives, offering an immersive journey into this historic event.

Courage and Honor: A Historic Exhibition at the Legion of Honor Museum in Paris

The Legion of Honor Museum showcases the various badges of bravery awarded to deserving soldiers in a free exhibit running from April 22 to July 26, 2026.

Napoleon I’s Last Will: A Special Free Exhibition at the National Archives

This is one of the most legendary documents in French history. Safeguarded under tight security at the National Archives, Napoleon I’s will is being temporarily displayed to the public from March 4th to June 29th, 2026, in Paris.

Lafayette, bridging France and America: free exhibit on the Marquis at the National Archives

From April 1 to July 14, 2026, the National Archives will host a free exhibition dedicated to Marquis de Lafayette. Featuring rare documents, caricatures, and related artifacts, this exhibition traces the life of the "hero of two worlds" — a figure equally celebrated in the United States and debated within France, against the backdrop of revolutionary upheavals.

Byblos, a millennia-old city in Lebanon: the historic exhibition at the Arab World Institute

The Arab World Institute takes us on a journey back in time to explore what was once the world’s first international seaport, around 9,000 years ago. The exhibition Byblos, a Millennia-Old Libyan City is open from March 24 to August 23, 2026.

The Count of Artois, a prince and patron: exhibition at Château de Maisons-Laffitte extended – photos

Discover the exhibition “The Count of Artois: Prince and Patron” at Château de Maisons-Laffitte, running from November 14, 2025, to March 8, 2026. Over 120 pieces from the Palace of Versailles and other prestigious collections showcase the early years of the future Charles X.

A Day in the 18th Century: An Immersive Exhibition in a Parisian Townhouse at MAD

The Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris transports visitors back to the 18th century, offering an immersive experience through the exhibition "A Day in the 18th Century." Explore a French private mansion and step into the past from February 18th to July 5th, 2026.

Simone Veil. My Sisters and I: An Intimate, Free Exhibition at the Memorial to the Holocaust — Our Photos

The Shoah Memorial highlights the special bond between Simone Veil and her sisters with an emotionally compelling exhibition running from February 10 to October 15, 2026.

Red: An archaeological journey through a color — from prehistory to today at the ARCHEA Museum (95)

From March 14 to November 15, 2026, the ARCHEA Museum will delve into the mysteries of the color red with a groundbreaking archaeological exhibition. Spanning prehistoric pigments to medieval adornments, this exhibit showcases the significance and influence of this symbolic hue throughout thousands of years.

The Sun King's Rediscovered Treasure: An Exhibition of Exceptional Artworks at the Grand Palais, Featuring Nighttime Views

From February 1 to 8, 2026, the Grand Palais will host its inaugural exhibition of the monumental tapestries commissioned by Louis XIV from the National Manufactories. Visitors will step into an extraordinary world of 17th-century splendor, encountering approximately thirty masterpieces woven for the Louvre's Grand Gallery, including two exclusive evening openings.

Van Gogh as Influencer: An Exhibition Celebrating the Artist’s Legacy at Château d'Auvers-sur-Oise

From April 18, 2026, to January 3, 2027, the Château d'Auvers-sur-Oise will host an exhibition dedicated to delving into the sources of inspiration and the lasting legacy of Vincent van Gogh's work, highlighting his enduring influence.

Jardin des Lumières: An Exhibition Celebrating Garden Art at the Grand Trianon, Versailles

At the Palace of Versailles, the Grand Trianon hosts a brand-new exhibition: "Garden of Lights." Visitors can experience this captivating display from May 5 through September 27, 2026.

Revisit the Château-Neuf: the exhibition on the lost royal residence of Saint-Germain-en-Laye (78)

The Château-Neuf of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, a lost Renaissance treasure, is coming back to life this winter. Through an exhibition blending archival materials and 3D reconstructions, embark on a digital journey to rediscover this forgotten palace. The exhibit runs until March 8, 2026, at the Ducastel-Vera Museum.

Saint-Cloud in the clouds: Free exhibition and flight simulator at the Avelines Museum

From February 12 to July 5, 2026, the Avelines Museum will take us soaring into the skies with a free exhibition exploring Saint-Cloud's pivotal role in aviation history — featuring historic archives alongside a flight simulator!

The language of the walls: China's stamped artworks displayed at the Museum of Decorative Arts

The Museum of Decorative Arts presents "The Language of Walls" from March 18 to June 28, 2026, an exhibition focused on the art of stamping. It brings together 19th-century Chinese pieces with contemporary imprints, all created directly on the stones of Notre-Dame de Paris during its restoration.

The Navy and the Painters: A Major Exhibition Exploring Art and Authority at the Museum of the Navy

The Museum of the Navy highlights the painters who helped shape the history of the French fleet, with a historical exhibition opening from May 13 to August 2, 2026.

Silla: Gold and the Sacred — An Exhibition Showcasing Korea's Treasures at the Guimet Museum

The Guimet Museum unveils ancient treasures from the Silla Kingdom in South Korea with the exhibition "Silla: Gold and the Sacred," open from May 20 to August 31, 2026.

The grand journey of medical discovery: an exhibition at the Arab World Institute

In Paris, the Arab World Institute is delving into the journey of medical knowledge across civilizations, from antiquity to the modern era. Through books, artifacts, and manuscripts, the exhibition "The Great Adventure of Medical Knowledge" will be on display from October 13, 2026, to January 10, 2027.