Petit Palais

The Petit Palais is an art museum in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, featuring four wings surrounding a semi-circular courtyard with arcade columns of pink Vosges granite. A prominent central dome crowns the building and structures the interior space.

Charles Girault designed this Beaux-Arts building between 1897 and 1900 specifically for the 1900 Universal Exhibition. It was one of several new structures created expressly for that international event.

The museum displays French paintings, medieval artworks, Renaissance pieces, and various collections spanning from the 8th to the 19th century. These galleries show how artistic tastes and techniques changed across different time periods.

The museum sits on Avenue Winston-Churchill and is open Tuesday through Sunday with free entry to the permanent collections. Visitors should expect clear signage throughout the building and easily accessible gallery spaces.

The building houses one of France's largest public collections of religious icons, donated by Roger Cabal. These pieces are complemented by elaborate murals and stained glass windows distributed throughout the rooms.

Location: 8th arrondissement of Paris

Inception: 1902

Architects: Charles Girault, François Hennebique

Official opening: 1900

Architectural style: Beaux-Arts

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Fee: No

Address: Avenue Winston Churchill

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-18:00

Phone: +33153434000

Website: https://petitpalais.paris.fr

GPS coordinates: 48.86603,2.31456

Latest update: December 14, 2025 19:25