Musée des Beaux Arts d'Angers
- Collections of the Museum
- Main Highlights of the Museum
- Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Angers and David d'Angers
- Practical Information
- What to See in Angers
- Best Time to Visit Angers
- Where to Stay in Angers
- Where to Eat in Angers
- Getting Around Angers
- Things to Do in Angers with Kids
- Shopping in Angers
- Nightlife in Angers
- Day Trips from Angers
- Insider Tip
Collections of the Museum
The Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Angers boasts a diverse and captivating collection of artworks spanning the Middle Ages to the present day. At its core lies an impressive array of paintings, ranging from medieval altarpieces to masterpieces of the Renaissance and beyond. Among the highlights are works by Nicolas Poussin, Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, Eugène Delacroix, and Camille Corot.
Equally significant are the museum's sculptures, which encompass a wide range of styles and materials. From delicate ivories and alabasters of the Gothic period to monumental bronze and marble creations of the 19th century, the collection offers a comprehensive survey of sculptural history. Notable pieces include works by Jean Goujon, Germain Pilon, and Auguste Rodin.
Complementing the paintings and sculptures is a remarkable collection of decorative arts. This includes exquisite furniture, tapestries, ceramics, and metalwork from various periods and cultures. Of particular note are the Renaissance tapestries depicting scenes from Ovid's Metamorphoses, as well as the collection of 18th-century furniture by the renowned cabinetmaker Jean-François Oeben.
Main Highlights of the Museum
Among the museum's most prized possessions are several masterpieces that have captivated art enthusiasts for generations. The "Portrait of Louis XIV" by Hyacinthe Rigaud stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Sun King, exuding both power and majesty. Another highlight is "The Lamentation of Christ" by Nicolas Poussin, a poignant depiction of grief and despair that showcases the artist's mastery of classical composition.
The museum also boasts an impressive collection of tapestries, woven with intricate precision and artistry. These tapestries, often depicting scenes from mythology or history, offer a glimpse into the storytelling traditions of past centuries. Among the most notable are the "Apocalypse of Angers" and the "Hunt of the Unicorn", both of which are considered masterpieces of the genre.
Of particular significance are the works of Jean Lurçat, a renowned contemporary artist who played a pivotal role in the revival of tapestry making. His tapestries, characterized by their bold colors and abstract designs, have garnered international acclaim and can be admired in the museum's collection.
Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Angers and David d'Angers
Pierre-Jean David d'Angers, known as David d'Angers, was a French sculptor who lived from 1788 to 185He is one of the most important and prolific sculptors of the 19th century. He is best known for his sculptures and bas-reliefs, which often depicted historical figures and scenes.
David d'Angers was born in Angers, France, and he studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. He returned to Angers in 1815 and opened a studio. He quickly became one of the most sought-after sculptors in France, and he received commissions from all over the country.
David d'Angers' works are characterized by their realism and their attention to detail. He often depicted historical figures in a heroic and idealized manner, and his sculptures are often filled with symbolism. He was also a master of bas-relief, and he created some of the most beautiful and intricate bas-reliefs of the 19th century.
The Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Angers has a large collection of works by David d'Angers. This includes sculptures, bas-reliefs, and drawings. The museum also has a collection of personal objects that belonged to David d'Angers, such as his tools and his furniture.
The Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Angers is one of the best places in the world to see the work of David d'Angers. The museum's collection is vast and comprehensive, and it provides a unique insight into the life and work of this important artist.
Practical Information
The Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Angers is conveniently located within the city center, making it easily accessible on foot or by public transportation.
Location: 4, rue du Musée 49100 Angers France
Hours of Operation: - Tuesday : 10 am - 6 pm - Wednesday to Sunday : 10 am - 30 pm and 2 pm - 6 pm - The museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
Admission Fees: - Full price: 4€ - Reduced price: 2€ (for students, seniors, disabled visitors, and groups of 10 or more) - Free admission: for children under 18, members of the museum, and on the first Sunday of every month
Guided Tours: Guided tours of the museum are available in French and English. Tours must be booked in advance and are subject to availability.
For more information, please visit the museum's official website or contact them by phone at +33 (0)2 41 05 38 00.
What to See in Angers
In addition to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Angers is home to a number of other notable attractions. The Château d'Angers is a massive medieval fortress that dominates the city skyline. Built in the 13th century, the castle was once the residence of the Dukes of Anjou. Today, it is open to the public and houses a museum of medieval art and history.
The Angers Cathedral is another must-see attraction. This Gothic masterpiece was built over a period of several centuries, and it features a stunning array of stained-glass windows. The cathedral is also home to the tomb of René of Anjou, the last Duke of Anjou.
Other notable attractions in Angers include the Musée Pincé, which houses a collection of decorative arts from the 16th to the 19th centuries; the Musée de l'Apocalypse, which tells the story of the Apocalypse through a series of tapestries; and the Jardin des Plantes, a beautiful botanical garden that is perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Best Time to Visit Angers
The best time to visit Angers is during the shoulder seasons, from April to May and from September to October. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C. The city is also less crowded during these times, so you can avoid the long lines and crowds of the summer months.
If you are interested in attending any of Angers' many festivals and events, be sure to plan your trip accordingly. Some of the most popular events include the Angers BD Festival, which is held every January and features over 200 comic book artists from around the world, and the Angers Music Festival, which takes place in June and features a variety of musical acts from classical to rock.
No matter what time of year you visit, Angers is a beautiful and welcoming city with plenty to offer visitors. So come and explore all that this historic city has to offer!
Where to Stay in Angers
Angers offers a variety of accommodation options for every budget and preference. Here are some recommendations:
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Hotels near the museum: If you want to be close to the Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Angers, there are several hotels within walking distance. Some popular options include the Mercure Angers Centre Château, the Hôtel du Mail, and the Hôtel de France.
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Budget-friendly accommodation: For those on a budget, there are several hostels and guesthouses in Angers. Some popular options include the Auberge de Jeunesse Angers, the HI Angers, and the Le Nid d'Angers.
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Recommended hotels: Here are a few highly-rated hotels in Angers that come with great reviews:
- The Hotel d'Anjou offers elegant rooms with modern amenities and a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views.
- The Best Western Plus Hôtel d'Anjou is a 4-star hotel located in the city center, offering spacious rooms, a fitness center, and a sauna.
- The Mercure Angers Centre Gare is a 3-star hotel located near the train station, offering comfortable rooms, a bar, and a restaurant.
Where to Eat in Angers
Angers offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to different tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking for traditional French cuisine, international flavors, or budget-friendly options, you'll find plenty of choices in this charming city.
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For a taste of traditional French cuisine:
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La Table d'Angers: Located in the heart of Angers, this restaurant serves classic French dishes with a modern twist. The menu features seasonal ingredients and creative presentations.
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Le Bistrot du Boucher: A cozy bistro that specializes in meat dishes. The menu offers a variety of cuts and cooking styles, all sourced from local farms.
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For international flavors:
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Le Taj Mahal: An Indian restaurant that serves authentic dishes from various regions of India. The menu features both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
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Le Comptoir du Voyageur: A world cuisine restaurant that offers dishes from different countries around the world. The menu changes regularly, so you're sure to find something new and exciting.
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For budget-friendly options:
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La Crêperie du Port: A popular spot for crepes and galettes. The menu offers a variety of savory and sweet options, all at affordable prices.
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Le Marché de Talensac: A bustling market hall where you can find a variety of food stalls selling fresh produce, cheese, bread, and other local specialties.
Getting Around Angers
Angers is a compact city that is easy to navigate on foot or by bike. The city center is mostly pedestrianized, and there are plenty of bike lanes and bike-sharing stations throughout the city.
If you're staying near the city center, you can easily walk to most of the major attractions. The Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Angers is located about a 15-minute walk from the city center. You can also take the tram or bus to the museum. The closest tram stop is "Place du Ralliement", and the closest bus stop is "Musée des Beaux-Arts".
If you're planning on doing a lot of day trips from Angers, it may be worth renting a car. There are several car rental agencies located in the city center.
Here are some additional tips for getting around Angers:
- The city center is closed to traffic on Sundays.
- There are several bike-sharing stations located throughout the city. You can purchase a pass that allows you to use the bikes for a day or a week.
- The tram and bus system is efficient and affordable. You can purchase tickets at the ticket machines located at each stop.
- Taxis are available at the taxi ranks located throughout the city. You can also hail a taxi on the street.
Things to Do in Angers with Kids
Angers is a great city for families, with plenty of attractions and activities to keep kids entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in Angers with kids:
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Terra Botanica: This botanical theme park is a great place for kids to learn about plants and nature. There are over 250,000 plants on display, as well as interactive exhibits and activities.
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Le Parc de Loisirs de l'Isle Briand: This amusement park has a variety of rides and attractions for kids of all ages. There are also playgrounds, a petting zoo, and a mini-golf course.
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Le Musée des Sciences Naturelles: This natural history museum has a collection of over 2 million specimens, including dinosaurs, animals, and plants. There are also interactive exhibits and workshops for kids.
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L'Aquarium d'Angers: This aquarium is home to over 500 species of fish and other marine life. There are also touch tanks, a shark tank, and a sea lion show.
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Le Château d'Angers: This medieval castle is a great place for kids to learn about history. There are guided tours available, as well as a variety of activities and events throughout the year.
Shopping in Angers
Angers is a great place to shop, with a variety of options to suit all budgets and tastes. The city center is home to a number of boutiques and independent shops, as well as several shopping malls.
For those who love to browse local markets, the Place du Ralliement hosts a lively market every Saturday morning. Here, you can find fresh produce, cheese, bread, and other local specialties.
If you're looking for a more upscale shopping experience, head to the Promenade du Lac de Maine. This outdoor shopping center features a variety of high-end stores, as well as restaurants and a movie theater.
No matter what your budget or style, you're sure to find something to your liking in Angers.
Here are some of the best places to shop in Angers:
- Rue Saint-Aubin: This pedestrianized street is lined with boutiques and independent shops selling everything from clothing and accessories to home goods and gifts.
- Place du Ralliement: This lively square is home to a bustling market every Saturday morning, as well as a number of shops and restaurants.
- Centre Commercial des Halles: This shopping mall is located in the heart of the city center and features a variety of stores, including H&M, Zara, and Sephora.
- Promenade du Lac de Maine: This outdoor shopping center is located on the outskirts of the city and features a variety of high-end stores, as well as restaurants and a movie theater.
- Angers Outlet Village: This outlet mall is located about 15 kilometers from the city center and features a variety of discounted designer brands.
Nightlife in Angers
Angers offers a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to different tastes and preferences. Whether you're looking for a lively bar, a cozy pub, or a sophisticated cocktail lounge, you'll find plenty of options to keep you entertained.
One of the best ways to experience Angers' nightlife is to explore the city's many bars and clubs. Rue Saint-Aubin, located in the heart of the city, is a popular spot for bar-hopping, with a wide range of establishments to choose from. From traditional French bistros to trendy cocktail bars, there's something for everyone on this lively street.
If you're a fan of live music, Angers has several venues that host regular concerts and performances. The Chabada is a popular spot for both local and international acts, while the Théâtre du Quai offers a more intimate setting for classical and contemporary music concerts.
For those who prefer a more relaxed evening, Angers has several cinemas and theaters that show a variety of films and plays. The Cinéma Les 400 Coups is an independent cinema that screens a mix of arthouse and mainstream films, while the Théâtre Le Quai offers a diverse program of theater productions, from contemporary dramas to classic comedies.
No matter what your interests, you're sure to find something to enjoy in Angers' vibrant nightlife scene. So put on your dancing shoes, grab a drink, and experience the city's lively atmosphere after dark.
Day Trips from Angers
Angers is located close to the beautiful Loire Valley, which is home to many châteaux. A day trip to one of these châteaux is a great way to learn about the history and culture of the region. Some of the most popular châteaux include Chenonceau, Amboise, and Villandry.
Saumur, another nearby town, is also worth a visit. It is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud, which is one of the largest monasteries in Europe. Saumur is also a great place to try the local wine, which is produced in the surrounding vineyards.
If you are looking for a more active day trip, you can hike or bike in the Mauges Forest, which is located just outside of Angers. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, wild boar, and birds. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Insider Tip
Angers is a city full of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions. One of my favorite spots is the Jardin du Mail, a beautiful park located near the city center. It's a great place to relax and take a stroll, and it's also home to a number of interesting sculptures.
Another hidden gem is the Musée Jean Lurçat et de la Tapisserie Contemporaine. This museum is dedicated to the work of Jean Lurçat, a French artist who was a pioneer in the field of tapestry. The museum houses a collection of Lurçat's tapestries, as well as works by other contemporary artists.
If you're looking for a unique shopping experience, be sure to visit the Marché aux Puces d'Angers, a flea market that takes place every Sunday morning. You can find everything from antiques to vintage clothing to fresh produce at this market.
Finally, no visit to Angers would be complete without trying the city's famous rillettes, a pork spread that is similar to pâté. You can find rillettes at most restaurants and cafés in Angers, and it's also a popular souvenir to take home.
