You could say that Paris, as a whole, is a hotspot for classical art lovers. As one of the art capitals of the world, this city knows a thing or two about the subject. It's even home to some of the most famous museums in the world which, in turn, also houses many of the most iconic artworks ever made. But still, it's important to note that there are certain spots in Paris that are true havens for classic art aficionados. There's the Louvre, of course, as well as the Musée Rodin and even the Palaces Of Versailles! You can bask in the eternal glory of the works of the most famous and historic masters of fine art.
The Louvre
From the moment you read the title of this post, you already knew that you'd see the world-famous Louvre museum here, didn't you? Located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, this place is one of, if not the most popular museum in the world, it's only natural that this place starts off this list of classic art lovers' hotspots. One of the most iconic paintings in the world, Leonardo Da Vinci's 'Mona Lisa' hangs here, among many other great works of historic masters. This is the kind of museum that everyone, not just classical art lovers, ought to check out at least once!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Musée d'Orsay
While it doesn't exactly compare to the Louvre, Musée d'Orsay is also one of the most famous
art museums in Paris. It's home to over 80,000 works of art, many of which come from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century. So you can expect a few modern artworks by the likes of Picasso and Dali to appear here as well. But don't worry! This place is all about classical art. From the impactful paintings of Édouard Manet to the ballerina-filled masterpieces of Edgar Degas, Musée d'Orsay offers up quite the feast for the eyes!
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Nono vlf
Musée De L’Orangerie
Located on the western corner of Jardin du Tuileries and next to Place de la Concorde, you simply can't miss Musée De L’Orangerie. And you shouldn't miss either if you're a classical art lover. This place is a mecca for Impressionist art! From Paul Cézanne and Auguste Renoir to Henri Matisse and André Derain, their paintings are all here. And what's great about the place is that it highlights their artworks against bare walls, often painted in white or other natural tones. This way, you can really examine these masterpieces for what they truly are!
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Brady Brenot
Musée Rodin
As the founder of modern sculpture, it's only natural that François Auguste René Rodin has his own museum in Paris. Though Musée Rodin has two separate locations and in different
neighborhoods in Paris, the one on Rue de Varenne is the more famous one. As well as a must-see for any classical art lover of sculpture. It's here where you'll find the Sculpture Garden, a fabulous courtyard decorated with the legendary artist's amazing works. Not the least of which is his most iconic: '
The Thinker.'
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Geolina163
Musée Marmottan Monet
Musée Marmottan Monet is another great spot in Paris where classical art lovers can fawn over and worship one of the finest French artists who ever lived: Claude Monet. As a master of Impressionist art, he was a staunch pioneer of the art movement. So much so that his works became the definitive art of
La Belle Époque. Seeing his paintings in his own museum on Rue Louis Boilly will also give a good glimpse of what Paris was like during that time.
Source: Flickr.com/ abac077
Musée De Cluny
If you want to see what's probably the oldest art in Paris, then look no further than Musée De Cluny on Rue du Sommerard in the
5th arrondissement of Paris. Also known as '
Musée National du Moyen Age,' it houses countless artworks from the Medieval period. You can get any more classic than that. From tapestries to intricate woodwork, these are preserved artworks from many centuries ago. That fact that you can go see them for yourself is really quite something!
Source: Flickr.com/ Spencer Means
Though technically not a museum, it's worth noting that the iconic Palaces of Versailles is sort of like a classical art museum. The only difference here is that the artworks aren't displayed, but rather part of the decor instead. It's no secret that the former kings of France were known for their opulence. Because of that, they sponsored countless artists at the time and had them paint their royal portraits and other incredible works for the Versailles. Many of which you can still see to this day!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
If you're a classical art lover, then Paris would be like heaven to you! There are so many incredible places in this city where you can look at amazing artworks made centuries ago. These are the spots in Paris you have to check out at least once!
