Audio GuideMusée du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac

The Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac invites visitors to explore global art and cultural history. Nestled in Paris’s seventh arrondissement, just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower along the Seine, the museum opened its doors in two thousand and six. In two thousand and sixteen, it was renamed in honour of former President Jacques Chirac. The museum is dedicated to celebrating the indigenous arts and cultures of Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas.

Titouan Chiffoleau

The building, designed by Jean Nouvel, features a sleek, modern design reminiscent of a bridge, supported by columns and pilotis. Inside, a gentle ramp leads visitors through vibrant exhibitions showcasing textiles, sculptures, masks, and musical instruments from non-Western societies. Multimedia displays enhance the experience, offering insight into both permanent collections and dynamic temporary exhibitions.

Fred Booker

Beyond the main building, the museum complex includes additional sites of interest. One features a dramatic vertical garden by Patrick Blanc, while another presents a landscaped garden created by Gilles Clément, complete with serene pathways and innovative lighting. Visitors can also indulge in the rooftop restaurant, Les Ombres, which offers sweeping views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and the Trocadéro. Additionally, the site includes a theatre hosting concerts and film screenings.

This distinctive combination of contemporary architecture and ancient cultural treasures encourages discussions about indigenous cultural heritage and responsible preservation, providing an enriching experience for travellers from around the world.