Musée Réattu (Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Arles)

Museum in Arles

Arles Musee Reattu
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Mbzt

Perched along the serene banks of the Rhône at 10, rue du Grand-Prieuré, the Réattu Museum is one of the top attractions in Arles, where centuries of artistic evolution are beautifully housed within the walls of a former priory. Once home to the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem, this atmospheric building now showcases a world-class collection that spans from the neoclassical paintings of Jacques Réattu to bold works by Picasso, as well as cutting-edge sound art and photography.

Walking through its vaulted rooms and quiet courtyards feels like tracing the artistic heartbeat of Arles itself. The museum's blend of historic architecture and avant-garde exhibitions creates an experience that's both contemplative and inspiring — a highlight of any walking tour of Arles for those eager to see how the city continues to nurture creativity across generations.

History and Significance of the Réattu Museum

The story of the Réattu Museum begins in the late 18th century with Jacques Réattu, a celebrated painter from Arles and winner of the Grand Prix de Rome in 1791. In 1796, Réattu purchased the former priory hospital of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, envisioning it as a gathering place for artists — a dream that would only materialize after his death when the city acquired the building in 1868. Since then, the museum has evolved into one of the city's key cultural landmarks, earning historic monument status in 1958.

Over the centuries, the museum has embraced change and innovation. From the early exhibitions of young contemporary painters in the 1950s to the inclusion of Picasso's drawings and a major photographic collection in the 1960s, it has continually redefined what a museum can be. In 2007, it became the first fine arts institution in France to create a dedicated sound art collection, and in 2008, Christian Lacroix, another native of Arles, reimagined its presentation, bringing international attention and new audiences to this storied space.

Things to See and Do in the Réattu Museum

The museum's permanent collection weaves together past and present in a way that feels distinctly Arlesian. Visitors can admire Jacques Réattu's serene neoclassical works, including his masterpiece “The Sewing Workshop in Arles,” and discover paintings by Antoine Raspal that capture Provençal life with warmth and intimacy.

Equally fascinating are the drawings by Pablo Picasso — over fifty pieces donated by the artist himself — revealing his deep admiration for Réattu and the artistic legacy of Arles. The museum's photography section, established in 1965 by Jean-Maurice Rouquette and Lucien Clergue, remains one of France's pioneering collections in the field, showcasing both historical and contemporary photographers. The sound art installations, meanwhile, invite visitors to engage their senses in unexpected ways, blurring the boundaries between visual and auditory experience.

This spot is one of the best places to see in Arles if you appreciate how art evolves through dialogue — between artists, disciplines, and eras — all set within the poetic embrace of the Rhône's flow.

How to Get There

The Réattu Museum is located in the historic center of Arles, a short walk from the Rhône River and many other landmarks. From Arles railway station, it’s an easy 12-minute walk via Boulevard Emile Combes and Rue du Grand-Prieuré. For those driving, convenient parking can be found at Parking du Centre or Parking des Lices, both within walking distance of the museum.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Réattu Museum

  • Best time to visit the Réattu Museum: Late morning or early afternoon for fewer crowds and beautiful light along the Rhône.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Around 9 EUR; reduced rates for students, seniors, and groups.
  • Opening hours: Typically 10:00–18:00; closed on Mondays and some holidays.
  • Official website: www.museereattu.arles.fr
  • How long to spend: Around 1 to 1.5 hours to enjoy all exhibits comfortably.
  • Accessibility: Mostly accessible; some uneven flooring in historic sections.
  • Facilities: Gift shop, restrooms, and nearby cafés.
  • Photography tip: Capture the contrast between the museum’s medieval stonework and the modern art installations inside.
  • Guided tours: Available through the Arles Tourist Office and often themed around temporary exhibitions.
  • Nearby food options: Café Réattu nearby offers a relaxed stop with Rhône views; more options can be found along Rue de la République.

Is the Réattu Museum Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The Réattu Museum is one of the things to do in Arles that bridges its Roman, medieval, and modern identities. Few places encapsulate the city's creative continuity so gracefully — from Réattu's neoclassical brushstrokes to Picasso's sketches and Lacroix's imaginative reinvention. For art lovers, it's not just a museum but a dialogue between centuries of artistic vision.

Nearby Attractions to the Réattu Museum

The Musée Réattu (Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Arles) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Arles!

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Visiting Musée Réattu (Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Arles)

Hours:

Tuesday to Sunday

02 November – 28 Februar : 10am to 5pm

1st March – 31 October: 10am to 6pm

Closed on Monday. Closed on 1st January, 1st May, 1st November and 25 December

Price:

Full: 6€ – Reduced*: 4€ (Combined ticket Réattu museum + Vincent van Gogh Foundation: 12 €)

Address: Musée Réattu, Rue du Grand Prieuré, Arles, France
Arles: 0 km

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