The Musée de la BnF is a treasure trove that captures the entire span of human knowledge from Antiquity to the present day. Situated within the historic Richelieu site, this newly reimagined museum opened in 2022 after an extensive 12-year renovation.
Visitors are welcomed into some of the most remarkable spaces in Paris, including the Salle des Colonnes, the Galerie Mazarin, and the Salon Louis XV. The collection showcases nearly 900 exceptional works, from ancient manuscripts to precious jewels, maps, medals, costumes, photographs, and more.
Seven Stunning Rooms to Visit
The museum’s layout is both chronological and thematic, guiding visitors through 1,200 m² of exhibits that celebrate cultural milestones.
The Salle des Colonnes is where this journey begins, offering insight into the antiquities collected by French monarchs, ranging from Greco-Roman vases to ancient coins.
Moving through the Cabinet précieux, visitors encounter rare metals and jewels, including the Berthouville treasure, a stunning relic from an ancient temple.
The Salle de Luynes honors the great collector Duke of Luynes, displaying his vast array of antiquities, from war artifacts to Dionysian symbols.
The Salle Barthélemy presents a deep dive into the world of numismatics, including remarkable medals from the reign of Louis XIV and ancient gold coins.
In the Salon Louis XV, visitors are transported back to the 18th century, where they can admire one of the oldest period rooms in Paris.
The Galerie Mazarin is a highlight of the museum, showcasing a rich selection of encyclopedic treasures. Designed by François Mansart in the mid-17th century, this opulent gallery reflects the grandeur of its original owner, Cardinal Mazarin, whose collections included paintings, sculptures, and rare objects. It remains one of the few surviving examples of a Baroque gallery in France.
Don’t Miss the Bibliothèque Nationale de France (BnF) – Richelieu
In addition to the museum’s collections, visitors can also admire the grandeur of the library housed within the Richelieu site of the BnF. The restored Oval Reading Room (Salle Ovale), with its soaring glass dome, elegant arches, and shelves lined with thousands of books, is a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture and open to the public.
It’s not only a working research library but also a serene, awe-inspiring space where you can sit, read, or simply take in the historic ambiance—an experience that beautifully complements a visit to the museum.