Whether you’re interested in history, art, architecture, or all three, the Musée Anne de Beaujeu has something for you. Stroll through its galleries to uncover the region’s past and appreciate beautiful sculptures and paintings from across France and beyond.
The Musée Anne de Beaujeu was established in 1910 and is located on the site of a castle that once belonged to the Dukes of Bourbon. Investigate the name behind the museum a bit further and you will find that Anne de Beaujeu was originally Anne of France, the daughter of Louis XI and wife of the Duke of Bourbon. Over the years, the museum grew into the cultural treasure that is it is today.
There are over 20,000 pieces of art and artifacts within the museum, spread around five major categories. Start by viewing the archeological finds. See prehistoric furniture and a belt from the Bronze Age. Stop to examine the terracotta figurines.
Carry on to the personal collection of the Dukes of Bourbon, which includes items belonging to Anne de Beaujeu herself. There are galleries dedicated to religious sculptures, as well as tombs made out of marble and stained glass. The museum also has an excellent collection of German and Flemish paintings that depict biblical scenes and portraits.
Discover the pottery and cutlery section, where beautiful pieces of historic luxury goods are displayed. See the sparkle of the golden knives and the examples of design inspired by foreign countries. If you have children with you, finish your visit to the museum by signing them up for an interactive activity where they get to create their own piece of artwork to take home.
The Musée Anne de Beaujeu is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and on Monday in July and August. Sunday hours are in the afternoon only. Children visit the museum for free, while adults pay an entrance fee that depends on the exhibitions available. Students with valid identification and adults under the age of 25 can enjoy reduced rates. Take a guided tour of the museum at an extra cost for additional insight into its collection.
