© Fondation Maeght
Maeght Fondation Museum, St-Paul de Vence
Top French contemporary and modern art museum
Just outside Saint-Paul de Vence lies one of France's most famous modern and contemporary art museums. Surrounded by pleasant gardens, this is a nice place to spend your afternoon.
The gallery was created by Aime and Margueritte Maeght, who donated their personal art collection of around 9,000 items. It was opened in 1964 by André Malraux.
Catalan architect Josep Lluis Sert designed the buildings and spaces and many of the more famous artist's works were incorporated into the building and garden structure: the Giacometti courtyard, one of the world’s most famous “in-situ” works, the Miró labyrinth filled with sculptures and ceramics, the mural mosaics of Chagall and Tal Coat, Braque's pool and stained glass window, the Bury fountain. The complex blends interior and exterior space with the sculpture garden, courtyards, terraces and patios, showrooms, chapel, library and bookstore.
Paintings, sculptures, drawings, ceramics and graphic works of art all feature by notables such as Chagall, Giacometti, Leger, Braque, Kandinsky, Calder and Miro. Contemporary artists such as Adami, Kelly, Kuroda and Monony are also featured.
Visitor comments
- "Modern art at its best, with an interesting selection of 20th century artist, and even a few contemporary ones. Interesting because you will (re)discover some names that you do not see everywhere. And this architecture and that nature outside, under the sun, how fantastic ! A slow stroll through building, terrace and gardens takes you a good hour. A bit pricey ticket, but it is a private foundation and well worth it." - Trip Advisor
- "My partner and I recently paid a return visit to the Maeght gallery and garden in St Paul de Vence, and found it every bit as fascinating as the first time. The building itself is alone worth the visit, and the art works inside as well as in the beautiful grounds are truly memorable . The whole place has an ambiance of peace and tranquillity. Well worth a visit ." - Trip Advisor
- "Thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Fondation Maeght. Galleries were very nicely curated and individual artworks were delightful. This is a jewel of an art museum - small but the quality and variety of their holdings are stunning. Highly recommend it." - Trip Advisor
When to come
Open every day from 10:00 to 19:00 from July to September. From October to June they close at 18:00.
How to get passes
Tickets can be purchased at the museum. They cost 15€ for adults, 10€ for groups of more than 10 people, children 10 to 18 years of age, students, unemployed, press and tour guides. Free for children under 10 and the disabled. There is also a 5€ photography and filming fee.
