
Musée Sainte-Croix
A Brutalist architectural marvel housing prehistoric, Roman, and fine art collections, including works by Camille Claudel.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

Musée Sainte-Croix
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Brutalist architectural marvel housing prehistoric, Roman, and fine art collections, including works by Camille Claudel.
"A fantastic, free museum with a striking Brutalist design and impressive art, especially Claudel."

Free Entry Alert! :money_with_wings:
Admission is often free, especially on Tuesdays. Check their schedule for any special free days!
Translate French Descriptions :iphone:
Most descriptions are in French. Use Google Translate or a similar app for a richer understanding.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Camille Claudel & Rodin
Fine Arts Collection
Discover powerful sculptures by Camille Claudel, alongside works by her teacher and lover, Rodin.

Prehistoric & Roman Artifacts
Archaeology Sections
Journey through time with fascinating prehistoric finds and well-preserved Roman artifacts.

Brutalist Architecture
Entire Museum Building
Experience the striking Brutalist design of the museum itself, an exhibit in its own right.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission & Time Commitment
Navigating the Maze
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry Alert! :money_with_wings:
Admission is often free, especially on Tuesdays. Check their schedule for any special free days!
Translate French Descriptions :iphone:
Most descriptions are in French. Use Google Translate or a similar app for a richer understanding.
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The museum is a maze with multiple levels; comfortable footwear is a must for exploration.
Allow Ample Time :clock1:
You'll need at least an hour, possibly more, to fully appreciate the diverse collections.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry Alert! :money_with_wings:
Admission is often free, especially on Tuesdays. Check their schedule for any special free days!
Translate French Descriptions :iphone:
Most descriptions are in French. Use Google Translate or a similar app for a richer understanding.
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The museum is a maze with multiple levels; comfortable footwear is a must for exploration.
Allow Ample Time :clock1:
You'll need at least an hour, possibly more, to fully appreciate the diverse collections.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Musée Sainte-Croix for its free admission and diverse collections, ranging from prehistoric artifacts to fine art, with special acclaim for Camille Claudel's sculptures. The unique Brutalist architecture is a significant highlight, though the lack of English descriptions is a common point of feedback, often mitigated by translation apps.
"Fantastic museum. It was free to visit and contains some wonderful works by the recently re-evaluated Camille Claudel juxtaposed next to her teacher and lover Rodin, as well as many other works from ancient to 20th century.
You will need a good hour or more to see everything. My only criticism is that it would be nice to have a multilingual audio guide or telephone app so as to access more information in multiple languages.
One of the highlights of Poitiers and seemingly under-promoted by the city council. Staff were very friendly and helpful too."
53 mph
"Roman ruins, medieval art, and fine art. Admission was free on the day we went (Tuesday)"
Jonathan Lin
"Great museum in the middle of Poitiers. Staff were friendly and helped us navigate throughout the museum's layout (it's like a maze in the best possible way). The only thing to note was that all the descriptions were in french, however we just utilised Google translate on our phones and had no issues whatsoever. Definitely worth a visit."
Karolina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Musée Sainte-Croix is centrally located in Poitiers. It's easily accessible by foot from the city center. If arriving by car, there are parking garages nearby, though navigating Poitiers' streets can be a bit of a maze itself. Public transport options are also available, with bus stops close to the museum.
Yes, several parking garages are available within walking distance of the museum. The 'Hôtel de Ville' or 'Les Cordeliers' parking lots are good options. Be aware that parking in Poitiers can be busy, especially during peak tourist seasons.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Many visitors report that admission to Musée Sainte-Croix is free, particularly on Tuesdays. It's always a good idea to check the official museum website or call ahead to confirm current admission policies and any potential fees or special free days.
Opening hours can vary, but the museum is generally open during the day, Tuesday through Sunday. It's recommended to verify the exact hours on their official website before your visit, as they may change seasonally or for special events.
Given that admission is often free, advance booking is typically not required. However, for any special exhibitions or if you are part of a group, it's advisable to check the museum's policy on reservations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Musée Sainte-Croix boasts a diverse collection spanning prehistoric artifacts, Roman antiquities, medieval art, and fine arts from various periods, including notable works by Camille Claudel and Rodin. The building itself, a striking example of Brutalist architecture, is also an exhibit.
Most visitors note that exhibit descriptions are primarily in French. Many travelers successfully use translation apps on their phones, like Google Translate, to understand the information provided.
The museum offers a range of exhibits that can engage children, from ancient artifacts to art. The unique architecture might also spark their curiosity. However, the lack of English descriptions might require parental assistance for younger visitors.
Most visitors recommend allocating at least one to two hours to fully explore the museum's collections. If you plan to delve deeply into each section or appreciate the art at a leisurely pace, you might need even more time.
Absolutely! The museum is housed in a remarkable example of Brutalist architecture. Many visitors find the building's design and layout to be a significant part of the experience, describing it as a 'modern concrete maze'.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Currently, there are no dedicated dining facilities or cafes within Musée Sainte-Croix. Visitors are advised to explore the numerous restaurants and cafes located in the surrounding streets of Poitiers for refreshments.
The area around Musée Sainte-Croix offers a variety of dining options, from traditional French bistros and bakeries to international cuisine. You'll find plenty of choices to suit different tastes and budgets within a short walk.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside Musée Sainte-Croix, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artworks. It's always best to look for signage or ask museum staff if you're unsure about specific exhibits.
The unique Brutalist architecture of the museum offers many interesting angles for photography. The art installations themselves, particularly the sculptures, also make for compelling shots. Look for dramatic lighting and geometric patterns within the building.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
🎨 Art Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Camille Claudel
Many reviews highlight the importance of seeing Claudel's art in person, as photographs can only convey a fraction of the emotional impact. The museum's layout allows for intimate viewing of these masterpieces, encouraging visitors to spend time contemplating the artistry and the personal struggles that shaped Claudel's career. It's a powerful reminder of the often-unseen contributions of female artists in history.
Brutalist Architecture as an Exhibit
This architectural approach is often described as a 'concrete maze' and is a significant draw for those interested in modern design. The starkness of the concrete is often contrasted with the vibrant art it houses, creating a dynamic interplay between structure and content. The building's design is not merely functional; it's an integral part of the visitor experience, offering a dramatic and memorable setting for the collections. It's a place where the architecture is as much an exhibit as the artifacts within it, appealing to those who appreciate bold and unconventional design.
Exploring Poitiers' Past
Visitors often find the prehistoric and Roman sections particularly engaging, appreciating the clarity and preservation of these ancient relics. The museum's ability to present such a diverse historical narrative, from ancient times to modern art, within a single, architecturally striking building makes it a comprehensive cultural destination. It’s a place where you can trace the evolution of human presence and creativity in the region over millennia.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit