Salle des sciences naturelles
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Musée des Beaux-Arts et d’Archéologie Saint-Loup

4.5
·572 reviews·Troyes, France

Discover art and local history in a former abbey, featuring a surprising Mona Lisa copy and medieval gargoyles.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
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Salle des sciences naturelles

Musée des Beaux-Arts et d’Archéologie Saint-Loup

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover art and local history in a former abbey, featuring a surprising Mona Lisa copy and medieval gargoyles.

4.5
(572 reviews)

"A wonderful surprise with a fine and abundance of pieces, offering a unique glimpse into art and local history."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Hours Before You Go

Verify opening times, especially around lunch, to avoid disappointment. :clock1:

Polite Communication is Key

Engage with staff respectfully; some visitors report issues with less-than-friendly interactions. :people_hugging:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

18th Century Art Gallery

18th Century Art Gallery

Upper Gallery

Discover a surprising collection, including an early reproduction of the Mona Lisa.

Gargoyle Room

Gargoyle Room

Specific Gallery

Marvel at a unique and intriguing collection of medieval gargoyles.

Local History and Artifacts

Local History and Artifacts

Various Galleries

Explore Troyes' past through diverse exhibits on zoology, art, and architecture.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Check opening hours carefully, as they can vary, especially around lunch breaks. Some visitors have reported being denied entry shortly before closing or lunch, so plan accordingly to maximize your time inside.

Staff Interactions

While many find the museum's collections rich, a few reviews mention negative staff interactions. Be prepared for potentially strict adherence to rules and polite communication is key.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon (post-lunch)
Why
Museum reopens, less rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Check Hours Before You Go

Verify opening times, especially around lunch, to avoid disappointment. :clock1:

Polite Communication is Key

Engage with staff respectfully; some visitors report issues with less-than-friendly interactions. :people_hugging:

Don't Miss the Gioconda Copy

See an early reproduction of the Mona Lisa, a surprising gem. :art:

Explore the Gargoyles

The unique gargoyle collection is a definite highlight for many visitors. :stone:

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Hours Before You Go

Verify opening times, especially around lunch, to avoid disappointment. :clock1:

Polite Communication is Key

Engage with staff respectfully; some visitors report issues with less-than-friendly interactions. :people_hugging:

Don't Miss the Gioconda Copy

See an early reproduction of the Mona Lisa, a surprising gem. :art:

Explore the Gargoyles

The unique gargoyle collection is a definite highlight for many visitors. :stone:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(572 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often praise the museum for its rich and abundant collections, particularly highlighting the surprising art pieces like an early Mona Lisa reproduction and the unique gargoyle room. However, a few reviews mention negative experiences with staff rudeness and strict adherence to rules, which can detract from the overall visit.

"Very rude staff called my partner handicapped without reason. He was not blind, he was not crippled, he was not mentally backwards. All he did was being polite to explain we could not stay till 2 o’clock when the museum would reopen as they refused to let us in ten minutes before lunch break -and all understandable to that point-; but to suggest see imply that my partner is handicapped is above what is allowed. What was the matter with her/them?? Did they give the impression that my partner was ugly or something?! We left and we will not return. Troyes, beautiful built city with a rich past including Jeanne d’Arc among many others; but history repeats itself for sure. We might return to the magnificent cathedrals and the cozy little shopping streets.. but this museum and its medieval minded staff will not find the shadow of our footsteps upon the pebbles of their prejudiced little stable of plume filled carcasses kept alive on their walls again."

Key 'O

"The museum offers rich permanent collections and temporary exhibitions, taking you back in time with finesse and beauty."

Anton Ivanov

"Wonderful surprise, very fine and abundance of pieces. We will be back!"

Marita Alegre De Miquel

What People Like

Rich and abundant collections
Unique gargoyle room
Early Mona Lisa reproduction

What People Dislike

Rude staff interactions
Strict rule enforcement

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located in the former Abbey of St Loup. It's generally accessible by walking within the charming city of Troyes. Public transport options within Troyes are limited, so check local bus routes if not walking.

Parking in the historic center of Troyes can be challenging. Look for public parking garages like 'Hôtel de Ville' or 'Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny' which are within walking distance.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, and it's crucial to check the official website or call ahead. Some visitors have noted that entry might be restricted shortly before lunch breaks or closing times. Reddit

Admission fees are generally reasonable for this local museum. It's best to check the museum's official website for the most current pricing information.

Access to restrooms has been an issue for some visitors, with one report of being denied use. It's advisable to use public facilities before or after your visit if possible. Reddit

Yes, the museum often hosts temporary exhibitions alongside its rich permanent collections, offering a diverse range of art and historical displays. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Highlights include an early reproduction of the Mona Lisa in the 18th-century art gallery and a fascinating collection of gargoyles. The local history and zoology sections are also noteworthy. Reddit

Absolutely. The museum offers a good range of art, from local historical pieces to notable reproductions, providing insights into different artistic periods. Reddit

The museum is housed in a historic abbey, lending it a unique ambiance. It's generally described as offering a 'wonderful surprise' with a 'fine and abundance of pieces'. Reddit

To fully appreciate the collections, including permanent and temporary exhibits, allocate at least 1.5 to 2 hours. If you're a keen art lover, you might want more time.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities within the Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie Saint-Loup itself. You'll need to explore the surrounding streets of Troyes for cafes and restaurants.

Troyes is known for its cozy shopping streets and historic charm, offering numerous bistros and cafes. Explore the area around the museum for local culinary experiences.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage upon entry or ask museum staff. Non-flash photography is often permitted for personal use, but commercial use is usually prohibited.

The gargoyle room offers unique photographic opportunities. The architecture of the former abbey itself, along with specific artworks like the Gioconda reproduction, can also make for great shots.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Art History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about art history, the Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie Saint-Loup offers a delightful exploration. The presence of an early Mona Lisa reproduction is a significant draw, providing a unique point of comparison to the original. Reddit The 18th-century art collection offers a window into the artistic trends of that era, while the broader collection touches upon various historical periods and styles relevant to the region. Don't miss the chance to study the intricate details of the gargoyles, a testament to medieval artistry. Reddit

History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find plenty to engage with, as the museum covers local history, zoology, and architecture. It's a chance to connect with the past of Troyes through a variety of artifacts and displays. Reddit The former abbey setting itself adds a layer of historical context to your visit. Consider this museum as a valuable stop to understand the regional narrative and its evolution over time.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Collections: A Glimpse into Troyes' Past

The Musée des Beaux-Arts et d'Archéologie Saint-Loup boasts a diverse collection that spans art, local history, zoology, and architecture. Visitors often express pleasant surprise at the 'abundance of pieces' and the 'finesse' with which they are presented. Reddit A particular point of interest is the 18th-century art gallery, which houses not only period pieces but also a notable early reproduction of Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, offering a unique perspective on the iconic artwork. Reddit

Beyond fine art, the museum delves into the region's heritage. The zoology exhibits provide a look at local fauna, while architectural elements and historical artifacts paint a picture of Troyes' evolution. The 'Room of Gargoyles' is frequently cited as a highlight, showcasing medieval craftsmanship and a touch of the macabre that captivates visitors. This blend of art and history makes the museum a comprehensive exploration of the area's cultural tapestry.

Navigating Visitor Experience and Staff Etiquette

While the museum's collections are generally well-received, some visitors have shared experiences regarding staff interactions. One review detailed a particularly negative encounter, citing rudeness and inappropriate comments. Reddit This suggests that while the museum aims to preserve its historical charm, visitor service can be inconsistent. It's advisable for visitors to approach staff with politeness and clarity, especially when inquiring about rules or facilities. Reddit

Another point of contention for some has been access to facilities, such as restrooms, with one visitor reporting being denied use. Reddit This is particularly noted in a city where public toilets might be scarce. Therefore, planning ahead and being prepared for strict adherence to museum policies is recommended. Despite these isolated incidents, many visitors find the overall experience rewarding due to the quality and breadth of the exhibits.

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