Musee d’Art et d´Histoire de Provence
This unique museum of art and history in Provence was inaugurated in 1921 by Francois Carnot, who had the idea of creating a regional museum for visitors to learn about the rich ethnographic, historical and artistic heritage of eastern Provence, from prehistoric times entirely up to the first half of the twentieth century.
Francois Carnot was the son of the President of the Republic and had a large personal fortune, which enabled him to carry out a restoration work of the many rooms of the building.
Inside you will find a collection of art, porcelain, textiles, furniture, jewelry, agricultural tools and weapons.
The building formerly belonged to one of the oldest noble families in Provence – the Marquis Jean-Paul de Clapiers-Cabris. It was built in 1771 by the Milanese architect Jean Orello and became the Hotel de Clapiers-Cabris.
Neoclassical architecture
It is still one of the most elegant houses in Provence and has been nicknamed “The Little Trianon de Grasse” due to its affiliation with neoclassical architecture. However, the lines are softened by pink ocher colors in Italian style.
Above the front door is a head sculpture – “Head of Gordon” – which spews vipers out of its mouth.
At the back of the building is a cozy garden (now a historical monument) of 1200 m2, which was most recently re-designed by landscape architect Jean Mus. A nice breathing space on the trip through this wonderful museum.
The beautiful garden is planted with a huge magnolia, Japanese persimmon (Diospyros khaki), laurel, medlar (Mespilus germanica), and the iconic palm trees – introduced to the Côte d’Azur in the 19th century.
By Tommy Sverre / 2021
Photo gallery from the museum:
May – September: all days of the week 10-19
October – April: all days of the week 10-17.30
Closed: 1 May, 25 December and 1 January.
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Museums Maison Molinard Perfume Grasse
Visit the famous Maison Molinard perfumery and take a fragrant step into the world of exciting natural products. At Molinard you can learn more about the difficult art of producing world-class perfume.
Art Museum Villa Jean Fragonard
This elegant late 17th-century villa with magnificent gardens with majestic palm trees houses works by the famous Grasse painter Jean-Honoré Fragonard.
Food & Wine Domaine de la Royrie olive farm
Situated on the mountainside between Grasse and Cabris, this olive grove will give you a very special experience with its breathtaking …
Golf Golf de la Grande Bastide
“What you see is what you get” at Golf Grande Bastide – here you get what you see, namely 18 good golf holes without any blind shots.
Golf Claux Amic Golf
In the deep quiet of the forest, precision golf is the key word on this beautiful forest course near Grasse between the sea and the mountains.
Churches & chapels Cathedral Notre-Dame du Puy
This church, built in the Provencal Romanesque style, was first mentioned in 1154 as the church of Saint Marie. The church was elevated to a Cathedral in …
Excursions Excursions Grasse
Grasse is the capital of perfumery and with only 20 km to the coast, the city is an obvious starting point for excursions and trips to discover the French Riviera.
Monuments Monument for the fallen
This monument is the work of sculptor Gaston Le Bourgeois (1885-1953) in collaboration with architect Léon Le Bel (1883-1968). The inauguration took place in 1928.
Golf Golf Saint Donat
Golf Country Club Saint Donat presents itself beautifully with a wide column entrance to the clubhouse flanked by tall cypresses and a look out towards the northwestern Prealps around the …
Museums Fragonard Perfume Grasse
The world-famous FRAGONARD PERFUME Grasse started in 1926 and was named after a then well-known local artist from the 18th century, Jean-Honoré Fragonard.
Advertisement Maison Duplanteur
La Maison Duplanteur is a chocolatier with great passion located in the old town of Grasse.
Advertisement Café des Musées
This charming, well-located café with its shaded terrace is the perfect stop between the sights visits of Grasse.
