- History and visit the Musée Rodin in Paris
- Discover the surroundings of the Musée Rodin in Paris
- Transfer to the Rodin Museum in Paris
History and Visit of the Musée Rodin in Paris
The Musée Rodin, situated in two distinct locations, is housed within the 18th-century Hôtel Biron on rue de Varenne and the Villa des Brillants on Avenue Auguste Rodin. Opened in 1919, the museum’s collections are dedicated to the works of Camille Claudel and Auguste Rodin, encompassing around 6,000 sculptures, 8,000 old photographs, 8,000 drawings, and 7,000 art pieces. Spanning an area of 45,900 square meters, it attracts approximately 700,000 visitors annually and became a public administrative institution in 1993. Accessible via the Varenne Metro Station, the museum showcases a range of Rodin’s works.
Rodin, a sculptor who defied the norms of his era, is known for his realistic performances, as exemplified by « The Thinker » located in the museum garden. His works exude a majestic quality. The museum also exhibits Rodin’s paintings, drawings, and collaborations with various photographers like Adolphe Braun, Jacques Ernest Eugène Druet, and Bulloz, highlighting these works as art pieces, not merely photographs. Additionally, Rodin’s collection of paintings includes works by renowned artists such as Vincent Van Gogh and Auguste Renoir.
The museum features a dedicated room for Camille Claudel, Rodin’s collaborator and muse. It hosts temporary exhibitions, including the highly visited « Camille Claudel: Woman, an Artist. » Contemporary art exhibitions are also held in the museum. Located in the 7th arrondissement, the Musée Rodin occupies the Hôtel Biron, at the junction of Boulevard des Invalides and Rue de Varenne. Named after Marshal Biron, this historical building housed workshops for artists like Henri Matisse, Jean Cocteau, and Rodin. The French state acquired the building in 1911, and Rodin bequeathed his collections under the condition that it becomes a museum solely dedicated to his works. Architect Henri Eustache, appointed by the city of Paris, transformed the hotel into a museum.
Surrounding the hotel is an ancient 19th-century chapel, now functioning as an exhibition hall, auditorium, ticket office, and administration for the museum. The property also boasts a three-hectare French-style garden with diverse plants, shrubs, and trees. The Villa des Brillants in Meudon, Rodin’s former residence with Rose Beuret, provides insight into his personal life with its furniture and photographs. Adjacent to the villa is the Alma Pavilion, initially an exhibition space for Rodin’s works during the 1900 Universal Exhibition and the museum’s first workshop. Following a fire in 1871, it was replaced in 1930 by a larger concrete structure.
Discover the surroundings of the Musée Rodin in Paris
Nestled in the 7th arrondissement, the Musée Rodin is a cultural gem surrounded by equally intriguing sites. Just a short stroll away, visitors can explore the Invalides, home to the Musée de l’Armée and Napoleon’s Tomb. The grandeur of the golden dome and its historical military significance provide a stark contrast to Rodin’s intimate sculptures.
A few minutes’ walk to the east leads to the sprawling lawns of the Champ de Mars, a perfect picnic spot with unmatched views of the Eiffel Tower. This iconic area is ideal for leisurely afternoons or enjoying a sunset that illuminates one of Paris’s most famous landmarks.
For art lovers, a visit to the nearby Orsay Museum, across the Seine, offers a deep dive into impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces. This former railway station turned museum boasts works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas, making it a must-visit for anyone appreciating 19th-century art.
Each of these destinations is readily accessible, ensuring that visitors to the Musée Rodin can experience a rich tapestry of Parisian culture and history. For those seeking convenience and comfort in traveling to these sites, consider our reliable minivan service for a hassle-free exploration of Paris.
Transfer to the Rodin Museum in Paris
Traveling to the Rodin Museum from Paris’s airports can be seamless with our transfer services. Located 17.9 km from Orly Airport and 32.9 km from Charles de Gaulle, the museum is a cultural highlight easily accessible via private car or shuttle. Even from Beauvais, 88.1 km away, visitors can enjoy comfortable travel. Choose our service for a stress-free journey, avoiding the high costs and complexities of public transport. Our reliable transfers ensure you reach the Rodin Museum, a sanctuary of art nestled in the heart of Paris, efficiently and comfortably. With direct routes and competitive fees, we provide an optimal travel solution, enhancing your Parisian cultural exploration.