Musée des Beaux-Arts de Valence

Nestled in the heart of Valence, France, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Valence, also known by its local name Musée d'Art et d'Archéologie de Valence, is a treasure trove of art and history. Positioned at 4 Place des Ormeaux, right across from the majestic Saint-Apollinaire Cathedral in the historic Vieux Valence district, this museum offers a captivating journey through time, showcasing the rich heritage of the region.

A Historical Gem

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Valence is not just a repository of art and artifacts; it is a historical landmark in its own right. Officially established in 1850 following a decision by the city council, the museum's origins can be traced back even further. It is believed that an initial museum of the arts was created by revolutionaries, with its classical architecture credited to Alexandre Milon de Mesme, the Bishop of Valence from 1726 to 1771. Since the early 20th century, the museum has been housed in the former bishopric of the city, gradually expanding its collection and its premises.

Architectural Marvel

The museum underwent significant renovation and expansion between 2009 and 2013, under the guidance of architect Jean-Paul Philippon. The transformation increased the museum's size from 2,000 to 5,750 square meters and introduced a contemporary architectural style. One of the highlights of this renovation is the creation of a belvedere, offering a stunning 360-degree view of the natural and urban landscapes of the Drôme and Ardèche regions. The new layout includes thirty-five rooms spread over five levels, with easy access via stairs and elevators, and an emphasis on natural lighting that opens up numerous vistas of the city and the Rhône River.

Diverse Collections

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Valence boasts an impressive collection of over 20,000 works, providing a comprehensive panorama of human history and the arts, from regional prehistory to contemporary art. The museum is divided into two main sections: Archaeology and Art.

Archaeology

The archaeology section offers a chronological and thematic exploration of the societies that have inhabited the middle Rhône valley, from modern times back to prehistory. Visitors can marvel at artifacts from daily life, housing, funerary rites, and architectural elements. Highlights include ancient altars, sculptures, and mosaics, such as the intricate Labors of Hercules.

Art

The art section features a diverse array of paintings, drawings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the 16th to the 20th centuries. The museum's collection includes works from various schools, including Flemish and Dutch, French landscapes, and Italian still lifes. One of the museum's most renowned collections is that of Hubert Robert, an 18th-century French artist known as Robert of the Ruins. This collection is among the most complete in the world, rivaling those of the Louvre and the Hermitage Museum.

Notable Artists

The museum's art collection includes works by notable artists such as Hyacinthe Rigaud, Jean-Baptiste Perronneau, Giovanni Paolo Panini, and Jacob Philipp Hackert. The 19th-century collection features pieces by Hippolyte Bellangé, Eugène Delacroix, Jean-Baptiste Camille Corot, and Eugène Boudin, among others. The 20th-century collection showcases works by André Lhote, Bram van Velde, Henri Michaux, Pierre Soulages, and Gérard Garouste.

The Arsène-Héritier Library

In addition to its extensive art and archaeology collections, the museum is home to the Arsène-Héritier Library, which houses over 10,000 volumes and specialized journals on art and archaeology. This library operates in conjunction with the local media library and the documentation center of the École supérieure d'art et design de Valence, making it an invaluable resource for researchers and art enthusiasts alike.

Visitor Experience

A visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Valence is a journey through time and space. The museum's thoughtfully curated exhibitions and displays provide a deep insight into the cultural and historical evolution of the Valence region and beyond. The modern amenities and well-designed spaces ensure a comfortable and enriching experience for all visitors.

Whether you are an art aficionado, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Valence offers a captivating and educational experience. Its unique blend of ancient and modern, local and global, makes it a must-visit destination in the charming city of Valence.