Burrowed in the quaint town of Chantilly, Paris, the Condé Museum is an exceptional gem that showcases splendid works of art and captivating history. Stepping inside, you'll be mesmerised by the impressive collection of paintings, manuscripts, and decorative objects that adorn its halls. Keep reading to learn all the intricate details about the Condé Museum!

Plan Your Visit to Chateau de Chantilly

Quick Facts About Condé Museum

Official name: Musée Condé
Address: Route Pavée, 60500 Chantilly, France
Date of opening: 1898
Timings: Open daily except Tuesdays, 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Architect: Jean Bullant and Honore Daumet
Architectural style: Renaissance and Classical architecture
Number of visitors per year: Approximately 500,000
Collection size: Over 800 paintings and 13,000 manuscripts
Function: Art museum, historical monument, library, and cultural venue

Why Visit the Condé Museum?

Exceptional Art Collection: Discover over 800 stunning paintings and art pieces from renowned artists like Raphael and Botticelli.
Rare Manuscripts: Explore the 13,000-piece manuscript collection, including the remarkable "Très Riches Heures of the Duke of Berry."
Elegant Decorative Arts: Be amazed by exquisite furniture, ceramics, and intricate objets d'art reflecting the opulence of Parisian aristocracy.
Second Only to the Louvre: Experience France's second-largest collection of historical art, offering a less crowded and more intimate atmosphere.
Great for All Ages: Entices both art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike with a diverse range of paintings, manuscripts, and artefacts.

Inside Chateau de Chantilly

Highlights of the Condé Museum

Massacre of the Innocents at Chateau of Chantilly

Priceless Artworks

Representing the great masters of European art, you'll find stunning works by artists such as Raphael, Botticelli, and Poussin. One of the most famous paintings housed in the museum is the hauntingly beautiful "Massacre of the Innocents" by François-Joseph Navez, which will leave a lasting impression on any art lover.

Cabinet des livres (library) Chateau de Chantilly

Exquisite Manuscripts

Possessing one of the most exceptional collections of manuscripts, the Condé Museum includes over 13,000 books and documents, with the collection's jewel being the famed "Très Riches Heures of the Duke of Berry," known as the most significant illuminated manuscripts in existence. The museum also houses an extensive library that boasts volumes dating back to the 10th century.

Chateau de Chantilly Galerie des Batailles

Decorative Arts and Objets d'Art

From furniture crafted by master artisans to intricate ceramics and ornate silverware, the museum's collection is a testament to the exquisite taste of the dukes that once resided there. Among the highlights is a dazzling array of objets d'art, including gem-encrusted snuffboxes, precious reliquaries, and delicate ivory carvings.

Salle des Gardes

The Salle des Gardes is an elegant space featuring luxurious decorative arts, exquisite furniture, and incredible objets d'art. This lavish room is designed to transport you back to when the dukes of Condé hosted sumptuous feasts and entertained esteemed guests.

Chateau de Chantilly Chambre of Monsieur le Prince

The Duke of Aumale's Private Apartments

Explore the intimate living spaces of the Duke of Aumale, the Château's last resident, and marvel at the exceptional attention to detail in the furnishings and décor. The Duke's private apartments provide a glimpse into the life of French nobility during the 19th century.

Château Gardens and Estate

The museum houses an extensive collection of art and is surrounded by the breathtaking gardens of Chateau de Chantilly. Wander the beautifully landscaped grounds, admire the picturesque fountains and sculptures, and enjoy a serene escape from the bustling city.

Plan Your Visit To the Condé Museum

Opening Hours

Getting There

Accessibility

Rules

Timings: Open daily except Tuesdays, 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Closed: Tuesdays and some holidays.
Best time to visit: Morning hours on weekdays are the best time to visit.

Chateau de Chantilly Timings

Address: Route Pavée, 60500 Chantilly, France

Find on Maps

By Bus: Line 645 from Senlis
Nearest bus stop: Chantilly,-Gouvieux station, 10-15 minutes away from the Chateau.
By Train: RER-D line from Gare du Nord
Nearest train station: Chantilly-Gouvieux station is 10-15 minutes walk from the Chateau.
By Car: Garde du Nord is about 45 kilometres from Chateau de Chantilly and takes under an hour to reach, depending on traffic conditions.
Nearest car parking: Parking du Reservoir is 3-5 minutes from the Chateau.

Getting to Chateau de Chantilly

The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available at key locations to facilitate movement throughout the building.
Designated parking spaces for visitors with disabilities are available near the museum entrance for convenient access.
Clear signage and wayfinding markers are placed throughout the museum to assist visitors in navigating the exhibits and facilities easily.
Accessible restrooms equipped with grab bars and adequate space for wheelchair manoeuvrability are conveniently located within the premises.
Guide dogs are allowed inside the museum to assist visitors with disabilities.
The museum provides audio guides with audio descriptions and explanations of the exhibits, ensuring an inclusive experience for visually impaired visitors.

Maintain a respectful and quiet atmosphere within the museum to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
Do not touch the artworks, artefacts, or any displays to maintain the integrity and preservation of the collection.
Large bags, backpacks, umbrellas, and bulky items must be deposited at the designated baggage or coat check area.
Consuming food and drinks inside the museum galleries is not allowed in order to preserve the museum's sanctity.
Smoking and vaping are prohibited inside the museum premises.
Respect the designated areas for visitors with disabilities.
If visiting with children, ensure they are supervised at all times.

History of the Condé Museum

The Condé Museum, residing within the opulent Château de Chantilly, has a fascinating history, closely connected to the Condé family. The family first gained prominence in the late 15th century, thanks to the successes of the legendary Grand Condé, a French military commander who triumphed during the Thirty Years' War. The family's fortune and influence continued to grow with time, and as they expanded their estate, they began amassing an incredible collection of valuable art and artefacts.

The present existence of the museum owes its existence to Henri d'Orléans, the Duke of Aumale, the last scion of the House of Condé. Born in 1822, Henri was a well-travelled and highly educated man who developed a deep passion for art and literature. Upon inheriting the Château de Chantilly and the family's vast art collection, the Duke began cataloguing and expanding his legacy, ultimately transforming the estate into a museum to showcase the family's cultural treasures.

His dreams became a reality in 1898 when the Duke bequeathed his entire estate to the Institute of France. In his will, he stipulated that the collection would be made available to the public and that no part of it would ever be sold. Thanks to his generosity, the Condé Museum now houses one of France's most extensive private collections of art and manuscripts.

Influence of the Condé Museum Today

The Condé Museum significantly influences Parisian culture and history for several reasons.

Firstly, it houses one of France's most extensive and exceptional private art collections. Its vast collection of European paintings and illuminated manuscripts attract art enthusiasts and scholars worldwide.

Secondly, the museum is crucial in preserving and promoting an understanding of the influential and aristocratic Condé family. Through its exquisite art and artefact displays, the museum offers a window into the opulence and grandeur of an era in French history that shaped the nation's artistic and cultural development.

Furthermore, the enchanting Chateau de Chantilly, within which the Condé Museum is located, stands as an architectural marvel reflecting the intricacies and styles of both the Renaissance and Classical periods.

Today, the Condé Museum's influence goes beyond just being a repository of fine art and historical artefacts. The museum actively organises and participates in various cultural events, workshops, and temporary exhibitions. Therefore, the museum serves as a treasure trove for art and history enthusiasts and an interactive cultural hub for people of all ages and interests!

‌
‌
‌

Book Your Chateau de Chantilly Tickets

Château of Chantilly: Gardens and Great Stable

Instant Confirmation

Mobile Ticket

Flexible Duration

More details

from

€14.99

Frequently Asked Questions About the Condé Museum

What is the Condé Museum?

The Condé Museum is a renowned art museum in Chateau de Chantilly that houses an extensive collection of paintings, manuscripts, and decorative objects from Europe's artistic past.

Where can I buy Condé Museum tickets?

You can purchase Condé Museum tickets online through their official website or at the museum's entrance.

Is access to Conde Museum included with Chateau de Chantilly tickets?

Yes, the ticket to Chateau de Chantilly is inclusive of access to the Condé Museum.

Who designed the Condé Museum?

Jean Bullant and Honore Daumet are the two main architects of the museum.

When was the Condé Museum built?

The Condé Museum was established in 1898 after the Duke of Aumale bequeathed his estate to the Institute of France.

Where is the Condé Museum located?

The Condé Museum is located at Route Pavée, 60500 Chantilly, France.

How can you reach the Condé Museum ?

You can reach the Condé Museum via bus, train or car.