Musée des Beaux-Arts – Caen

The Musée des Beaux-Arts of Caen was founded following the consular decree of August, 31 1801, which provided for the distribution of the works previously preserved at the Central Museum of Paris among 15 major provincial cities: Caen was chosen as the capital of Normandy.

The first core of the collection, consisting of the works of art confiscated during the secularization of the monasteries and convents of the region, found place in the former seminary of the church of Sainte-Catherine-des-Arts; the redevelopment of spaces ended in 1809, year of opening of the museum. Over the years, the collection has grown, and now houses works by the greatest masters of France and Europe, including Paolo Veronese, Poussin, Dürer, Rembrandt, Callot, Perugino, Rogier van der Weyden, and others.

In 1944, during World War II, the museum suffered a severe bombardment; in 1963 the reconstruction began, and from 1971 the collection is housed in the castle of Caen.

The museum houses exhibitions of paintings, drawings and prints from all periods: rich in remarkable collections of ancient painting, the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Caen is equally open to contemporary creations.

Many activities are organized, open to every age groups, even events for children: shows and events regarding cinema, literature, cuisine, yoga, and much more.
The museum welcomes artists and hosts night events, such as the night of the living model, the night of the students, the night of the museums.
The entrance to the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Caen.

Info

Musée des Beaux-Arts – Caen

Link: mba.caen.fr

Perugino’s masterpieces preserved here: