The Henri Cartier-Bresson Foundation, an artistic venue celebrating photography in Paris

Published by Cécile de Sortiraparis, Laurent de Sortiraparis · Photos by Laurent de Sortiraparis · Published on January 24, 2025 at 02:28 p.m.
The Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson in Paris's 3rd arrondissement is a must-see for photography enthusiasts. Tours, exhibitions, find out what's new at this cultural institution.

The Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson is located a stone's throw from Place de la République, rue des Archives, in the 3rd arrondissement of Paris. Created in May 2003 by the legendary French photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson and his wife Martine Franck, this private foundation, recognized as a public utility, preserves and promotes the couple's work. As a space for archives, education and exhibitions, the foundation's ambition is to makephotographic art shine.

This somewhat hidden space in the Marais district of Paris houses a research library and extensive archives, as well as a number of exhibition spaces that can be used for a variety of events and presentations at the same time.

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The history of the foundation is intimately linked to its founders' desire to preserve an exceptional photographic heritage. Since its opening, it has preserved the archives of Henri Cartier-Bresson and Martine Franck, including almost 50,000 original prints, contact sheets, drawings, publications, handwritten letters, rare books, albums, films, videos, posters, invitations and sound recordings.

To highlight this heritage, and above all to provide a showcase for other photographers, both French and international, the Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson organizes three exhibition cycles a year, focusing on a specific artist or theme.

To plan your visit, note that the foundation is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 7pm. It's easily accessible by public transport, with metro lines 1, 3, 8 and 11 serving the area. Guided tours are regularly organized, providing in-depth information on current exhibitions.

In addition, the Foundation offers annual season tickets, giving unlimited access to temporary exhibitions, as well as reduced rates for events and guided tours. A special offer is also available for young people aged 18 to 25: a ticket purchased on site entitles the holder to a free same-day ticket on the last Wednesday of each month.

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Practical information

Location

79 Rue des Archives
75003 Paris 3

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Accessibility info

Access
Metro lines 3 and 11 "Art et Métiers" station, line 3 "Temple" station, metro line 8 "Filles du Calvaire" station.

Prices
Tarif réduit: €6
Plein tarif: €10

Recommended age
For all

Official website
www.henricartierbresson.org

More information
The Foundation is open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 7pm. The Foundation is closed on Mondays. Exceptional closures: January 1, May 1, December 24 and 25.

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