In Saint-Denis, northeast of Paris, this art and history museum traces the city’s story from the Middle Ages to modern times. It occupies a former Carmelite convent, and the collections range from medieval archaeology to art by Sonia Delaunay and displays on the Paris Commune. Temporary exhibitions add new subjects to explore. Allow time for the building as well as the collections: its former convent spaces and outdoor atriums are part of the visit. The Basilica of Saint-Denis is within walking distance.
A Carmelite convent turned museum
The museum has occupied a former Carmelite convent in Saint-Denis since 1981. The municipality saved the buildings from destruction in 1972. The convent was founded in 1625, and its chapel was built in 1779 at the request of Louise of France, the youngest daughter of Louis XV, who became a Carmelite nun there.
The museum’s rooms preserve the setting of the former religious complex while presenting the history and art of Saint-Denis. Take time to notice the building and its outdoor atriums as you move through the collections. The first section includes stairs, so a baby carrier is more practical than a stroller for visitors with infants.
From medieval archaeology to the Paris Commune
Collections chart the development of Saint-Denis from medieval times to the present. Medieval archaeological material includes objects from the town’s former hospital. Other displays address the Siege and Commune of Paris, with rooms devoted to the Commune and documents relating to its history.
The museum also has a section on Paul Éluard, the French poet known as the author of “Liberté.” Art by Sonia Delaunay appears among the works connected with the city. Temporary exhibitions rotate, so the subject on view can change between visits; a Venus exhibition is one example of a past show.
Planning the visit
Exhibition text is in French, which can make the displays harder to follow if you do not read the language. The museum is at 22 bis Rue Gabriel Péri, between the Basilica of Saint-Denis and the Stade de France. The basilica is a short walk away, so the two sites can be combined in one outing.
A listed admission price is €3 per person. The museum is closed on Mondays. Weekdays are a practical choice for a quieter visit, leaving more room to explore the displays and the convent spaces at your own pace.
FAQ
How much does admission cost?
A listed admission price is €3 per person.
Is the museum near the Basilica of Saint-Denis?
Yes. The basilica is within walking distance, so you can visit both in one outing.
Are the exhibition descriptions in English?
The exhibition descriptions are in French.
Is the museum suitable for a stroller?
The first section has stairs. A baby carrier is more practical for visitors with infants.
