Audio GuideMusée de l'Orangerie

Museum with 20th-century European art collection, showcasing 8 of Monet's water lilies murals.

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Welcome to the Musée de l'Orangerie, an exceptional art museum situated within the Tuileries Garden, near Place de la Concorde in Paris. Originally constructed in eighteen fifty-two as a winter orangery to house citrus trees, the building boasts a rich history dating back to the era of Napoleon the Third. Over the years, it has transformed from a functional greenhouse into a modern art venue that honours both its historical roots and creative expression.

The museum is renowned for its series of eight grand Water Lilies murals by Claude Monet. These captivating murals are displayed in two oval rooms with skylights that allow natural light to enhance their beauty. Monet meticulously designed them to ensure the changing light from east to west would highlight their essence perfectly. Beyond Monet, visitors can explore works by esteemed artists such as Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso, and Modigliani. The collection features masterpieces of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, capturing significant milestones in European art.

Extensive renovations in the early twenty-first century have seamlessly merged the building’s historic character with modern amenities like educational spaces, areas for temporary exhibitions, and even a café. With its proximity to major attractions such as the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay, the Musée de l'Orangerie serves as both an art museum and a cultural hub, hosting a variety of exhibitions, performances, and special events, ensuring that every visitor enjoys a rich and memorable experience.

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