Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen

Museum in Caen

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Christophe.Finot

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen is a prominent fine arts museum located within the historic Château de Caen in Normandy. Established in 1801, it houses an extensive collection of European paintings from the 16th to the 20th centuries, featuring works by renowned artists such as Rubens, Tintoretto, Géricault, Monet, Bonnard, Boudin, Dufy, and Courbet. The museum also boasts an exceptional collection of engravings, making it one of France’s finest fine arts museums in this domain.

The museum’s origins trace back to the early 19th century when it was established as part of a national initiative to distribute artworks confiscated during the French Revolution. Initially housed in the former Eudist seminary, the museum suffered significant damage during World War II, leading to the loss of numerous artworks. In 1971, it was relocated and rebuilt within the Château de Caen, providing a modern space to showcase its collections.

Among its notable collections, the museum holds masterpieces by artists such as Perugino, Veronese, and Rogier van der Weyden. The Mancel collection, bequeathed in 1872, comprises over 50,000 works, including prints by Dürer and Rembrandt. Additionally, the museum features a sculpture park with works by artists like Rodin and Bourdelle, enhancing the cultural experience for visitors.

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen continues to engage the public through temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events. Its commitment to preserving and showcasing art makes it a vital institution in France’s cultural landscape.

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Caen!

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