The musée des Augustins
Housed in a former medieval convent, the Musée des Augustins is Toulouse’s fine arts museum. Having been completely refurbished, this iconic venue invites visitors to explore collections of paintings and sculptures dating from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century, set within a remarkable complex that blends heritage, architecture and art history.
A former convent turned museum
Built from the 14th century onwards, the former Augustinian convent is one of Toulouse’s finest historic monuments. Its architecture harmoniously blends Toulouse brick and stone, providing a remarkable setting in the heart of the historic centre.
The grand cloister and its garden invite visitors to take a peaceful stroll, whilst the museum’s galleries showcase the collections in a display of timeless charm. Large-scale works from the 17th and 18th centuries interact with the sculptures in a presentation reminiscent of the great museums of yesteryear.
A monumental staircase
The impressive Darcy Staircase is one of the highlights of the tour. A true architectural masterpiece, it showcases stone, brick and light in a spectacular interplay of perspectives.
A dialogue between paintings and sculptures
The museum houses over 4,000 works tracing the major milestones in the history of Western art, from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century.
The spectacular Romanesque capital gallery brings together one of the most significant collections of carved capitals in Europe. The works are enhanced by the colourful light installation by contemporary artist Jorge Pardo, which creates a striking dialogue between medieval heritage and contemporary art.
Throughout the exhibition, paintings and sculptures interact within a revamped layout that offers a fresh perspective on the collections.
A museum undergoing a renaissance
Following several years of restoration work, the Musée des Augustins has reopened part of its exhibition spaces and offers a completely revamped visitor experience. The refurbishment is continuing with the gradual reopening of new areas, making every visit an opportunity to rediscover this jewel of Toulouse’s heritage.
21 rue de Metz
Did you know?
Housed in a former medieval convent, the Musée des Augustins is one of the oldest museums in France, having opened to the public in 1795, just two years after the Louvre.
Key facts
- The Toulouse Museum of Fine Arts, housed in a former medieval convent founded in the 14th century.
- One of the oldest museums in France, opened to the public in 1795 and now gradually reopening after several years of renovation.
- Collections of paintings and sculptures, from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century, showcasing nearly eight centuries of artistic creation.
- The Romanesque Capital Gallery, which houses one of the most significant collections of Romanesque sculptures in the South-West, enhanced by a contemporary light installation conceived by the artist and designer Jorge Pardo.
- A dialogue between heritage and contemporary art, where the architecture of the former convent meets a completely reimagined museum layout.
FAQ
Why visit the Musée des Augustins?
To explore the fine art collections in an exceptional historic setting.
What can you see at the Musée des Augustins at the moment?
The museum is gradually reopening following major renovation work. Part of the collections is once again on display to the public, with a tour focusing on paintings and a selection of sculptures. However, the church and the rooms dedicated to medieval sculptures are not yet open to the public.
Is the cloister open?
Yes, the cloister is part of the tour route and allows visitors to enjoy the unique atmosphere of this former medieval convent.
How long should you allow for a visit?
Between 1½ and 2 hours.
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