Immerse yourself in the history of Montmartre and its rich culture. Skip the ticket line and go directly to the museum which was once a meeting point and house for many artists. Discover the permanent collection and experience the montmate vibe.
With your audio guide, learn about the rich history of Montmartre from the 19th century and when it was annexed to the city of Paris. From this moment on, the city imposed itself on the countryside of Montmartre.
Artists started to move to Montmartre in 1870 and the cafes and cabarets multiplied in the 1880’s. Montmartre quickly became a place filled with effervescent bohemian spirit and creative energy.
The most celebrated cabaret, the Chat Noir, welcomed several performances of the Théâtre d’Ombres, shadow theatre, created in 1866 by Henri Rivière and Henry Somm.
Theatre, music, circus and dance all had a role in Montmartre. All of Paris came to listen to Aristide Bruant or Yvette Guilbert recite their texts or attend a performance by La Goulue, La Môme Fromage ou Grille d’Egouts, 3 dancers at the Moulin Rouge. Toulouse-Lautrec was one of the more assiduous artists in representing these performances.
This effervescent bohemian spirit was also present in the artists’ studios: 12 Cortot witnessed the passage of several, most of whom lovingly painted their residence.
The museum also offers temporary exhibitions.
The duration of the audio tour is 90 minutes but you are welcome to stay and explore the museum at your own pace.