Strasbourg, often hailed as the jewel of the Alsace region in France, is a city that effortlessly blends its rich historical tapestry with a forward-thinking, cosmopolitan spirit. Far from being a relic of the past, Strasbourg is a vibrant hub of arts and culture, boasting a diverse array of museums that cater to a wide spectrum of interests. From the grandeur of classical fine arts to the cutting-edge expressions of contemporary art, and from the intricate details of regional history to the captivating world of illustration, the city’s museums offer an enriching experience for every visitor. Let’s embark on a journey through some of the best museums Strasbourg has to offer.
Musée des Beaux-Arts (Museum of Fine Arts)
Nestled within the opulent Palais Rohan, a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture, the Musée des Beaux-Arts stands as a testament to the power and beauty of European art. This museum is one of three located in the Palais Rohan. Its collection is a curated journey through centuries of artistic expression, showcasing the talents of masters such as El Greco, Tintoretto, Van Dyck, Rubens, Raphael, Corot, Degas, and Goya.
The museum’s permanent exhibition unfolds as a comprehensive survey of European painting, spanning from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Visitors can immerse themselves in the diverse styles and movements that have shaped the art world, from the classical precision of Renaissance art to the emotional intensity of Romanticism and the fleeting impressions of Impressionism. Beyond paintings, the museum also features a notable collection of sculptures, adding another dimension to its artistic offerings.
The Musée des Beaux-Arts has faced its share of adversity, particularly during World War II, when bombs and fire ravaged parts of its collection. However, the museum has diligently worked to rebuild its holdings, acquiring significant collections of Italian, Dutch, and Flemish paintings. This ongoing commitment to growth ensures that the museum remains a vital center for art appreciation and scholarship.
- Address: 2 Place du Château, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Phone: +33 3 68 98 50 00
Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg
To truly understand Strasbourg, one must delve into its multifaceted history, a narrative woven from both French and Germanic threads. The Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg provides an immersive exploration of this rich past, tracing the city’s evolution from its medieval origins to the mid-20th century.
Housed in a magnificent 16th-century building overlooking the picturesque Ill River, the museum’s collections are a treasure trove of artifacts that bring Strasbourg’s history to life. Paintings depict pivotal moments in the city’s past, while meticulously crafted scale models offer a bird’s-eye view of its urban development. Everyday objects, weapons, military regalia, archaeological finds, and antique furniture further enrich the displays, creating a vivid tapestry of life throughout the ages.
The museum’s recent additions include thematic displays and rooms dedicated to the period between 1800 and 1949, providing a more in-depth look at this transformative era. To enhance the visitor experience, free audioguides are available in multiple languages, including English. Moreover, interactive activities designed for younger visitors make the museum an engaging destination for families.
- Address: 2 Rue du Vieux-Marché-aux-Poissons, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Phone: +33 3 68 98 50 00
Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
A beacon of contemporary creativity, the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Strasbourg is a must-visit for anyone with an appreciation for the avant-garde. Its striking glass building, perched on the banks of the Ill River, is a bold statement of the museum’s commitment to showcasing the most innovative and thought-provoking art of our time.
The museum’s collection boasts an impressive array of works by renowned artists such as Monet, Kandinsky, Picasso, and Brauner, as well as pieces by emerging contemporary talents. From paintings and sculptures to decorative arts objects and stained-glass windows, the museum offers a diverse range of artistic mediums and styles.
A dedicated historical section traces the evolution of modern art from 1870 to 1960, encompassing movements such as Impressionism, Fauvism, Expressionism, Surrealism, and Pop Art. Temporary exhibitions provide a platform for solo artists and group shows, offering visitors a glimpse into the latest trends and developments in the contemporary art world.
Beyond its galleries, the museum also features an art library, an auditorium for film screenings and events, and a restaurant-cafe with a panoramic terrace. From the terrace, visitors can soak in breathtaking views of the Petite France neighborhood and the Covered Bridges, adding another layer of enjoyment to their museum experience.
- Address: 1 Place Hans-Jean-Arp, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Phone: +33 3 68 98 50 00
The Alsatian Museum
For those seeking a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage of Alsace, the Alsatian Museum offers a captivating journey into the daily life of the region during the 18th and 19th centuries. Housed within three interconnected historic houses dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, the museum’s collection comprises over 5,000 artifacts and artworks that vividly portray the traditions, customs, and livelihoods of the Alsatian people.
The museum’s 30 rooms are filled with a rich tapestry of objects, from traditional Alsatian clothing and costumes to homeware, tools, toys, furniture, and religious artifacts. Some rooms are meticulously recreated to resemble typical Alsatian interiors, offering visitors a glimpse into the homes and workplaces of the past. Highlights include the "workshop" of a pharmacist-alchemist, a traditional Alsatian kitchen, and the common room of a regional farm. Recent renovations have enhanced accessibility for visitors with limited mobility and wheelchair users.
- Address: 23-25 Quai Saint-Nicolas, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Phone: +33 3 68 98 51 52
Aubette 1928
Hidden behind the façade of an 18th-century neoclassical building on the bustling Place Kléber lies a remarkable testament to the avant-garde spirit of the 1920s. Aubette 1928 is a meticulously preserved leisure complex designed by three visionary artists: Theo van Doesburg, Hans Jean Arp, and Sophie Taeuber-Arp.
In 1928, these artists transformed the space into a functional work of conceptual art, using bold geometric forms and vibrant colors reminiscent of the Dutch De Stijl movement. The complex originally housed a cinema, a dance hall, a café-bar, and an events room, creating a hub of entertainment and artistic expression.
Following extensive restoration efforts, Aubette 1928 reopened to the public in 2006 and has been designated as a historic monument. Today, visitors can explore its fascinating spaces and experience temporary exhibitions, multimedia installations, dance performances, and other events that celebrate its unique artistic legacy.
- Address: 31 Place Kléber, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Phone: +33 3 68 98 50 00
Decorative Arts Museum
Another gem within the Palais Rohan, the Decorative Arts Museum offers a glimpse into the opulent world of 18th-century Strasbourg. The museum is divided into two distinct sections, each showcasing a different facet of decorative artistry.
The first section presents the lavish apartments of the prince-cardinals of Rohan, who resided in the palace during the early 18th century. Sumptuous fabrics, antique furniture, artworks, and other objects evoke the daily life of the palace’s aristocratic inhabitants.
The second section displays a collection of decorative arts from Strasbourg, primarily from the 18th century. Ornate cabinets, ceramics, chinoiseries, clocks, and other decorative objects exemplify the exquisite craftsmanship of the era. The collection also features a selection of antique mechanical toys, adding a touch of whimsy to the museum’s offerings.
- Address: 2 Place du Château, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Phone: +33 3 68 98 50 00
Le Vaisseau (Discovery Center of Science and Technology)
Designed with families in mind, Le Vaisseau is an interactive science discovery center that ignites curiosity and encourages learning through play. Ideal for children aged 3 to 15, the center offers over 130 interactive displays and activities covering a wide range of scientific and technological topics.
Exhibitions explore the human body, plants and animals, building and construction, mathematics, and logic, all presented in a fun and engaging manner. The exhibits are available in three languages: French, English, and German, making the center accessible to a wide range of visitors. Le Vaisseau also features a large garden where children can play and explore, as well as a cafeteria serving meals and refreshments.
- Address: 1 Bis Rue Philippe Dollinger, 67100 Strasbourg, France
- Phone: +33 3 69 33 26 69
Archaeological Museum
One of Strasbourg’s oldest museums, the Musée Archéologique, boasts a vast collection of over 600,000 artifacts that illuminate the history of Strasbourg and Alsace from prehistoric times to the early Middle Ages. Located within the Palais Rohan, alongside the Fine Arts Museum and Decorative Arts Museum, the Archaeological Museum offers a comprehensive overview of the region’s ancient past.
The museum’s holdings include prehistoric human remains, ancient pottery, jewelry, inscribed tombstones, armor, weapons, and even Egyptian antiquities. Temporary exhibits provide a more in-depth look at specific periods or themes, enriching the visitor experience.
- Address: Palais Rohan, 2 Place du Château, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Phone: +33 3 68 98 50 00
The Tomi Ungerer Museum – International Illustration Center
Dedicated to the work of renowned French and Alsatian illustrator Tomi Ungerer, the Tomi Ungerer Museum is an intimate and captivating space that celebrates the power of visual storytelling. Housed in the elegant Villa Greiner, the museum’s collection comprises around 8,000 drawings, posters, sketches, and sculptures by Ungerer, best known for his whimsical children’s books such as "The Three Robbers" and "Moon Man".
The museum’s permanent exhibition, which features approximately 300 works at a time, is frequently refreshed to showcase the breadth and depth of Ungerer’s artistic talent. Visitors can explore the thematic trails that delve into Ungerer’s diverse body of work, from his beloved children’s illustrations to his more provocative and satirical pieces. This museum in Strasbourg is a must see for art lovers.
- Address: 2 Avenue de la Marseillaise, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- Phone: +33 3 68 98 50 00
Strasbourg’s museums offer a captivating journey through art, history, and culture, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of this dynamic and multifaceted city. Whether you’re an art aficionado, a history buff, or simply seeking a memorable cultural experience, Strasbourg’s museums are sure to delight and inspire.
