Musée Bonnat-Helleu, Art museum in Bayonne, France
The Musée Bonnat-Helleu is an art museum in Bayonne that houses over 6,500 works from various periods, including paintings by Spanish and British artists alongside an extensive collection of 3,500 drawings. The holdings span from medieval times to the modern era, representing both well-known and lesser-known artists across different European artistic traditions.
The museum was founded in 1897 when painter Léon Bonnat decided to donate his personal collection to the City of Bayonne in 1901. This generous gift became the foundation of the institution and shaped the collection that remains today.
The collection brings together works spanning different periods and artistic traditions, revealing how painters from various regions approached similar themes. Walking through the galleries, you notice how Spanish, Flemish, and English schools of art are presented side by side, showing the exchange of ideas across Europe.
The building has been closed for renovation since 2011, with reopening planned for 2025 when it will offer double the exhibition space. This extensive update will create more room for displaying the collections and improve visitor facilities.
The collection of drawings and prints is one of France's largest outside Paris, spanning works from multiple centuries. These works on paper often show the artists' own notes and sketches, revealing how they approached their creative process.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
