The Musée de Montmartre in Paris: discover a historical and artistic treasure trove

The Musée de Montmartre, located at 8-14 rue Cortot in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, is a must-see in the French capital. Founded in 1960 and classified as a Musée de France in 2003, it attracts a considerable number of tourists, with 111,885 visitors in 2019. Nestled in one of Paris's most picturesque and artistic districts, the museum is housed in historic buildings that have been home to famous artists such as Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Suzanne Valadon (whose studio is open to visitors within the museum). It is a living testimony to the artistic and cultural effervescence of Montmartre.

• To be read
• Montmartre: the best exhibitions to see in this Paris neighborhood
• Café Renoir, the superb hidden terrace of the Montmartre Museum
• Free Museums and Monuments to visit in Paris and the Ile-de-France region, good ideas for outings

The Musée de Montmartre has its roots in three centuries-old buildings, notably theHôtel Demarne and theMaison du Bel Air. These premises, acquired in 1680 by the 17th-century French actor Rosimond, have been home to many renowned artists and writers. In 1876, Renoir painted his famous works La Balançoire and Le Bal du Moulin de la Galette. These historic buildings reflect not only the architecture of the period, but also the bohemian spirit that has characterized Montmartre for centuries.

The museum's collections, owned by the Le Vieux Montmartre association founded in 1886, include paintings, photographs, posters and manuscripts illustrating the history of the district. Highlights include Steinlen's Le Cabaret du Chat Noir, Bruant au Mirliton and works by Toulouse-Lautrec illustrating Le Divan Japonais and Le Moulin Rouge. The museum also exhibits Maurice Utrillo's La Place Pigalle, Suzanne Valadon's L'Autoportrait and Henri Rivière's Théâtre d'ombres. These works captivate not only for their artistic beauty, but also for their ability to tell the living story of Montmartre.

A true window on the soul of Paris, a place where history and art meet. A visit to the Musée de Montmartre reveals not only works of art, but also the spirit of a bygone era that continues to inspire and fascinate. Shall we take a little trip to Montmartre, friends?

Jacques Prévert, rêveur d'images" exhibition at the Musée de Montmartre - our photos
Jacques Prévert as you've probably never seen him before! The Musée de Montmartre invites you to discover a little-known facet of the poet's life through a brand-new exhibition running from October 18, 2024 to February 16, 2025. Between collages and personal collections, come and discover the surreal world of the thousand-faceted artist! [Read more]

Café Renoir, the superb hidden terrace of the Montmartre Museum
Café Renoir, hidden away in the garden of the Musée de Montmartre, awaits you for an exotic break in its glass roof, or in its lush garden in summer. Just a stone's throw from the Sacré Coeur, come and take a bucolic, gourmet break in this hidden, confidential terrace-tea room, offering both sweet and savory dishes. [Read more]