Admire paintings by Monet, Rubens and Champaigne and explore a maze of lavishly decorated rooms when you visit the stunning Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours. See furnishings such as rare antique clocks and furniture and browse the museum’s fine collection of ancient sculptures.
Set in the archbishops’ stunning 18th-century palace, the Musée des Beaux-Arts holds one of the most extensive collections of precious art in France. Take time to stroll through the lush palace gardens and explore the Gallo-Roman ruins nearby.
Once inside the palace, work your way through the many reception rooms where the best of the museum’s art is kept. Check out the 14th- to 16th-century display with highlights including Moroni’s Portrait of a Man and The Resurrection by Mantegna, dated 1459.
From here, head to the 17th- and 18th-century rooms where Champaigne’s The Good Shepherd is among the highlights. Be sure to look for more famous pieces by Rubens and Le Sueur. Nearby view one of the museum’s most famous pieces, a depiction of the Seine River in northern France, painted by the artist Claude Monet.
As you wander through the rooms of the museum you will see pristine furnishings. Some of these date back to as early as the 15th century. Particular gems are a grand 18th-century filing cabinet and a gold-plated clock from 1600.
Before you leave, be sure to visit the museum’s collection of sculptures, which have been assembled over hundreds of years. Marvel at ancient Roman-Greco statues and notice the exquisite detail of several figures of French royalty, including Louis XIV.
The Musée des Beaux-Arts is located a short drive from the centre of Tours. Use plentiful available parking. The city’s main train station is just a 2-minute walk away. There is a small admission fee for adults and children. Information on all the artwork is provided in English and guided tours are available.
