Musée de Cluny: Unveiling the Treasures of Medieval Paris
Discover the wonders of the Musée de Cluny, Paris’ museum of medieval art and history. From its unique blend of medieval and Roman architecture to the iconic Lady and the Unicorn tapestries and priceless remnants of the Notre Dame cathedral, this hidden gem offers a captivating journey through the Middle Ages.
Contents:
Presentation and History of the Musée de Cluny
The Musée de Cluny, officially known as the Musée National du Moyen Âge (National Museum of the Middle Ages), is a treasure trove of medieval art and history nestled in the heart of Paris’ Latin Quarter. The museum’s rich history dates back to the mid-19th century when it became an official State Museum, but the history of the museum buildings is far, far older.
Indeed, the Musée de Cluny is housed in two connected buildings of immense historical significance: the Hôtel de Cluny, a medieval mansion of the late 15th century, and the Thermes de Cluny, the remains of Gallo-Roman baths. This unique combination makes the museum itself an exhibit of architectural history.
Architecture: A Unique Blend of Roman and medieval
The Musée de Cluny is housed in two connected buildings of immense historical significance: the Hôtel de Cluny, a medieval mansion of the late 15th century, and the Thermes de Cluny, the remains of Gallo-Roman baths. This unique combination makes the museum itself an exhibit of architectural history.
The Thermes de Cluny: Preserved Roman Baths
The Thermes de Cluny are the most important remains of the Gallo-Roman era in Paris, dating from the end of the 1st to the beginning of the 2d centuries AD. If part of the structure visible from the outside of the museum (from Boulevard Saint-Michel and Boulevard Saint-Germain) is quite damaged, some rooms are still in excellent shape and received some of the museum collections.
The most famous Roman room is the Frigidarium, which was the cold room of the ancient baths. It is remarkably well-preserved. Its vaulted ceiling reaches a height of 14 meters, demonstrating the impressive engineering skills of Roman architects.
The Medieval Hôtel de Cluny
Built in the late 15th century, the Hôtel de Cluny is with the Hôtel de Sens (in the Marais), the only medieval gothic civil structure that reaches us in Paris.
The Hôtel de Cluny is a very prestigious building as it was nothing else than the townhouse in the French capital of the very powerful abbots of Cluny.
The Cluny Abbey was founded by Duke William I of Aquitaine in 910. Then, the Cluny Order, which followed strict adherence to the Rule of St. Benedict, rapidly became the leader of Western monasticism. The Major Ecclesia of Cluny was from the end of its construction in 1220 till the construction of the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican City three centuries later, the biggest church of the Christian world. Unfortunately, most of the abbey was sacked and nearly totally destroyed in 1790 during the French Revolution, and only 8% of it is still visible in Cluny in Burgundy.
The prestigious past of the Hôtel de Cluny explains the high architectural quality of the townhouse of Paris, which includes:
- Gothic Chapel: A two-story chapel that showcases the flamboyant Gothic style, featuring intricate stone tracery and vaulted ceilings.
- A spiral Staircase: A masterpiece of medieval engineering, connecting different levels of the building.
- A great Hall: with its impressive timber framework roof, this space exemplifies late medieval domestic architecture.
Musée de Cluny, Hôtel de Cluny facade, Quartier Latin, Paris, France.
Harmonious Blend
The Hôtel de Cluny was intentionally built incorporating the remains of the Roman baths, creating a harmonious blend of architectural styles spanning over a millennium. This integration offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the layered history of Paris within a single site.
Jardin Médiéval du Musée de Cluny – A public garden in which you can see the blend of medieval and Ancient Rome structures.Quartier Latin, Paris, France.
Extensive Collections and Notable Exhibits
Within these historic structures, the Musée de Cluny houses an impressive collection of medieval art and artifacts which are displayed folowing a global chronologicale order taking in account the historical specificity of the museum building.
Year 100 The Roman Bath of Lutecia, the Gallo-Roman City of the Parisii
The chronological journey through the Cluny Museum’s Middle Ages collection starts with a fantastic introduction: a visit to an intact portion of one of the public baths of Lutecia, the Gallo-Roman Paris. The museum itself is an introduction to the Middle Ages, showing you with its own walls what was there before: ancient Rome!
Indeed, the chronological itinerary starts with the Frigidarium the cold room of the Roman Bath of Lutecia (nowadays Paris), a huge preserved ancient Rome structure with its moving vault from the 2nd century, which miraculously arrived intact to us.
The huge room regularly houses the museum’s temporary exhibits. During the rest of the time, iconic pieces of ancient Rome in Gaulle (what is now France) are shown there.
The most famous one is The Pillar of the Boatmen: The remains of a Gallo-Roman pilar from the 1st century AD, featuring carvings of both Roman and Celtic deities, illustrating the cultural fusion of ancient Lutetia (Paris).
The acculturated Celtic tribe that lived in the Gallo-Roman city of Lutecia was called the Parisii, and with the passing of the century, the city itself will finally be named Paris!
Year 1000 the Capitals of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church
The Saint-Germain-des-Prés church is the oldest one in Paris. It is an early Romanesque structure built around the year 1000, with the notable exception of its choir, which dates from the 12th century and is one of the very first expressions of the Gothic style.
The Saint-Germain-des-Prés church is an exceptional monument and a must-see in Paris.
Nevertheless, like many others, this church was severely damaged during the French Revolution. On-site, most of the Romanesque capitals are reproductions.
The Cluny Museum’s room dedicated to Romanesque art shows most of the remaining original Romanesque capitals of Saint-Germain-des-Près church.
The Romanesque capitals were a considerable evolution in the arts, showing figures telling stories. Indeed, before, the capitals showed the ancient Greek architectural orders (doric, ionic, corinthian) and then (during the Carolingian era) geometrical and vegetable figures.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés church, the oldest of Paris.
12st Century First Gothic Remains from Saint-Denis Basilica
Two remains of the very first statue columns, a Gothic innovation. They came from Saint-Denis Basilique, just north of Paris, where the Gothic style started. The gothic style is better called Opus Francigenum as it was only later on pejoratively called Gothic during the Renaissance.
12st century Notre-Dame Cathedral Preserved Treasures
The Museum of Cluny houses a valuable collection of artifacts from Notre- Dame Cathedral, including pieces removed during the 19th century and some remains saved from the French Revolution’s destruction. Apart from several original gargoyles and chimeras, some other pieces are most notable.
Important remains of the “Galerie des Rois,” (gallery of the kings) a series of sculptures that ornated the Notre-Dame façade before being destroyed during the French Revolution.
The Adam of Cluny is an amazing sculpture from around 1260, initially in the interior of the south transept of Notre-Dame. This sculpture magistracy demonstrates the great capacity of the sculptors of the gothic period and how, more than one hundred years before the early beginning of the Italian Renaissance, they were very far from having forgotten the notion of “contrapposto,” the base principle of a living sculpture.
If you want to learn more about Notre-Dame, we offer Notre-Dame Cathedral Tours.
19th-century sculpture of the facade of Notre Dame Cathedral – Most of the original sculptures have been destroyed during the French Revolution. What remains of the original medieval sculpture is on display in Musée de Cluny.
The Lady and the Unicorn Tapestries – Entering the French Renaissance (end of the Middle Ages)
The crown jewel of the Musée de Cluny’s collection is undoubtedly the set of six Lady and the Unicorn tapestries. Woven in Flanders around 1500, these masterpieces of medieval art are renowned for their intricate symbolism and exquisite craftsmanship.
Each tapestry is believed to represent one of the five senses, with the sixth portraying the concept of “À mon seul désir” (To my only desire) which has been subjected to numerous interpretations.
Tapestry – The Lady and the Unicorn, The view (La Dame à la licorne, la vue).
Tapestry – The Lady and the Unicorn – To my sole desire (La Dame à la licorne, A mon seul désir)
Other Notable Collections
- Decorative Arts: An extensive collection of ivories, metalwork, and enamels.
- Illuminated Manuscripts: Featuring rare and beautifully preserved examples of medieval book art.
- The Golden Rose of Basel: An exquisite piece of 15th-century goldsmith work, this papal gift embodies the height of medieval craftsmanship.
Recent Renovations and Modern Additions
In 2022, the Musée de Cluny reopened after extensive renovations, introducing several modern elements while preserving its historic charm:
- A new contemporary entrance pavilion designed by architect Bernard Desmoulin
- Improved accessibility features throughout the museum
- Enhanced lighting and display techniques for better appreciation of the artifacts
- A redesigned visitor route that provides a more coherent journey through medieval history
These renovations have breathed new life into the museum, making it more accessible and engaging for modern visitors while maintaining its unique medieval atmosphere.
Visitor Information and Tips
- Location: 28 Rue du Sommerard, 75005 Paris, France
- Opening Hours: Wednesday to Monday, 9:30 AM to 6:15 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
- Admission: €12 for adults, free for EU residents under 26 and for all visitors under 18
- Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, with elevators available
- Guided Tours: Available in multiple languages, including English (check schedule at the reception)
- Audio Guides: Available in several languages for a small additional fee
Pro Tip: Visit early in the day or during weekdays to avoid crowds, especially in the Lady and the Unicorn room.
Nearby Attractions in the Latin Quarter
The Musée de Cluny is ideally situated in the heart of the Latin Quarter, surrounded by other notable attractions:
- The Sorbonne University
- Panthéon
- Luxembourg Gardens
- Shakespeare and Company bookstore
- Notre-Dame Cathedral (reopen in December 2024 after a 5 years restoration)
Consider combining your visit to the Musée de Cluny with a walking tour of the charming Latin Quarter to make the most of your time in this historic area of Paris.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to visit the Musée de Cluny?
Plan for about 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the museum’s collections and architecture. History enthusiasts may want to allow more time.
Is the Musée de Cluny suitable for children?
While primarily geared towards adults, the museum offers family-friendly activities and workshops during school holidays. The Roman baths and colorful tapestries can be engaging for children with an interest in history.
Can I take photographs inside the museum?
Photography without flash is generally permitted in the permanent collection areas. However, some temporary exhibitions may have restrictions.
Is the Musée de Cluny included in the Paris Museum Pass?
Yes, the Musée de Cluny is included in the Paris Museum Pass, making it a great addition to your Parisian cultural itinerary.
What’s the best time to visit to see the Lady and the Unicorn tapestries?
To avoid crowds, try visiting early in the morning on weekdays. The lighting is designed to protect the tapestries, so any time of day offers a good viewing experience.
Are there other Ancient Rome remains in Paris apart from the bath of Cluny?
Yes, even if from afar, the Roman Bath is the most impressive art. Not too far from the Cluny Museum, a little after the eastern limit of the Quartier Latin in the 5th district (5ème arrondissement), are the arenas of Lutecia (“Les Arènes de Lutèce“), which are not very impressive and were very intrusively restored. Even Closer to the museum of Cluny Ile de la cite, below the Parvis of Notre Dame, is an archological crypt where the Roman floor level is shown with many interesting remains.
Related Articles
- Top 10 Medieval Sites in Paris
- A Guide to Paris’ Latin Quarter
- Understanding Medieval Art: A Beginner’s Guide
- The History of the Lady and the Unicorn Tapestries
- Roman Paris: Tracing the City’s Ancient Roots
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of medieval Paris at the Musée de Cluny. This unique museum offers a captivating journey through time, from ancient Roman baths to exquisite medieval artworks. To further explore the rich history and culture of Paris, consider booking a private tour with Broaden Horizons.
Experience the Musée de Cluny and its vibrant neighborhood with a knowledgeable guide! While we don’t offer a specific Musée de Cluny tour, our 2-hour Paris Essential Tour starts at Musée de Cluny so you can visit the Museum by yourself before folowing your guide with a comprehensive exploration of this fascinating area of Paris. This tour covers the south of quartier Latin and the historic île de la Citée district.
For art and history enthusiasts looking for an in-depth exploration of the Cluny Museum itself, we can organize a custom tour on demand. This tailored experience can focus on the museum’s collections, architecture, and cultural significance, offering you a personalized journey through one of Paris’s most important cultural institutions.
Book our Paris Essential Tour or contact us about a custom Cluny Museum Tour. Explore our range of Paris private tours to make the most of your visit to the City of Light! See also Yves’web page , he is the Broaden-horizons tour guide in Paris.
The photos of the tapestries are from The Yorck Project (2002). GFDL.