Audio GuidePetit Palais
Richly decorated 1900 building, housing eclectic fine arts dating from Renaissance to 20th century.
Museum
Paris, France
Petit Palais is a historic art museum situated in the eighth arrondissement of Paris, first opened for the Exposition in Nineteen Hundred. The architect, Charles Girault, designed it in a grand Beaux-Arts style, characterised by a majestic central archway crowned with a dome, intricate pavilions, and elaborate sculptures, all of which continue to captivate visitors. Initially, the building stood as a symbol of the city's technological and artistic progress during a period of rapid transformation, replacing the older Palais de l’Industrie.
Over the years, Petit Palais has transformed into a contemporary museum with a permanent collection ranging from medieval and Renaissance art to pieces from the nineteenth century. It showcases masterpieces by artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Monet. Between Two Thousand and One and Two Thousand and Five, a significant renovation took place, expanding exhibition areas and enhancing amenities, including a delightful café located in a semi-circular central garden adorned with pink granite columns and intricate mosaics.
Today, as a part of the Paris Musées network, Petit Palais is a vibrant representation of Parisian art and architecture. It is easily reachable by public transport from the Champs-Élysées–Clemenceau metro station, making it an ideal destination for international tourists in search of history, culture, and artistic splendour in the heart of Paris.
Listen to this and other guides in app
