Musée de Cluny - (Medieval Art)

No other museum can rival the Musée de Cluny collection of medieval art and artefacts

Headless sculptures in the Musée de Cluny
Headless sculptures in the Musée de Cluny cc licensed photo by Olivier Bruchez

The Musée de Cluny is one of the most fascinating museums to visit in Paris. Situated at 6 Place Paul Painleve 75005 Paris, the Musée de Cluny is the National Museum of the Middle Ages. There is no other museum that can rival the Musée de Cluny in terms of the extent of their medieval collection of art and artefacts. The museum is also well known for its unique display as the actual building is a combination of medieval architecture and Gallo Roman ruins.

Among the many attractions within the vast museum are sculptures that date back to the 7th and 8th century respectively as well as a number of very important manuscripts from the medieval period which was well known for elaborate art work within these manuscripts. There are also a number of antique furniture and furnishings to be seen, gold and ivory art pieces and tapestries from many castles and noble homes around France.

Among these tapestries is perhaps the most famous tapestry collection in all of France, La Dame a la Licorne or the Lady of the Unicorn. These famous tapestries are said to have been woven in Flanders from silk and wool and are considered to be the finest example of tapestry art still in existence from the entire medieval period.

The original building in which the museum is housed was once a hotel — the Hotel de Cluny which, in the early part of the 14 century, was owned by the abbots of Cluny. The abbots of Cluny owned this hotel for a century by which time it was taken over by the Bishop of Clermont who lived in it as his official residence. The bishop rebuilt much of the hotel and many examples of the period's Gothic and renaissance elements remain intact to this day.

This museum definitely falls into the must see list of heritage sites for those who are in love with the Medieval period. Ensure that you allocate enough time on your itinerary to do it justice.

Nearby attractions: Latin Quarter, Pantheon and Notre Dame

Facts For Your Visit

Fee: Yes. Visit the official website for details.

Musée de Cluny - (Medieval Art) Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 6:15 PM
  • Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 6:15 PM
  • Thursday: 9:30 AM – 6:15 PM
  • Friday: 9:30 AM – 6:15 PM
  • Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:15 PM
  • Sunday: 9:30 AM – 6:15 PM

Address: 28 Rue du Sommerard, 75005 Paris, France

Phone: 01 53 73 78 00

Official Website: Musée de Cluny - (Medieval Art)

Musée de Cluny - (Medieval Art) Reviews

Rated 4.4 out of 5 Star Rating

3 Star Rating The museum with religious exhibits offered an average experience. While it provided insight into various faiths, the presentation lacked the depth and engagement expected. Despite touching on significant themes, the overall impression fell short, leaving room for improvement in delivering a more compelling narrative.
Wojciech Zawadzki - a month ago

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5 Star Rating A magnificent collection of art of all forms from the Middle Ages. The display of each of the thousands of pieces is well thought out and permits the viewer to truly absorb the work. The piece de resistance is the room of 'The Lady and the Unicorn' pieces, huge tapestries which are amazing examples of their time and age. And of course entry is free on the first Sunday of the month, but it is well worth the time and entry fee to visit regardless. (And yes, there is a small cafe inside, along with many eateries outside.)
Cathy Evatt-Davey - 3 months ago

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5 Star Rating What is most impressive is how big it is inside, and how deep underground in Paris is. The collection of art pieces is truly something. I recommend going there with a guide to get more context, especially surrounding the cristal sections.
Charles Dorin - a month ago

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5 Star Rating A lovely museum with a varied collection. But the key attraction and the absolute best room of the entire museum is undoubtedly the Lady abd the Unicorn tapestry room! As you come in you are surrounded by the set of six tapestries, lit up in the general darkness of the room. The amazing detail and the possibility to see it up close, to notice the tapestries referencing each other - it simply takes your breath away. This was a truly moving experience and I highly recommend it!
Irina Bischof - 4 months ago

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5 Star Rating You have to organize a visit to this museum. It's rich in art objects. Inside you can also find a café and an atrium where you can sit and enjoy coffees and desserts 🍨
Carmen Marcu - a week ago

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Directions

Metro / RER Line Nearest Station Walking Time
M10Cluny - La Sorbonne‎3 minutes
M4 / RER-B and CSaint-Michel - Notre-Dame‎‎6 minutes

How to get to Musée de Cluny - (Medieval Art) by Metro / RER

By Metro M10: Take Metro Line 10 to Cluny - La Sorbonne‎ Station. Exit the station and Cross over Bd Saint-Germain and walk south on Rue Saint-Jacques then right on Rue du Sommerard.

By Metro M4 or RER: Exit Metro Line 4 or RER Line B or C at Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame. Walk south on Bd Saint-Michel to Rue Pierre Sarrazin and go left. Musée de Cluny is just ahead on your left.

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