The Musée Fabre was founded in Montpellier, France, in 1825 by the artist François-Xavier Fabre, a Montpellier native. His generous donation of his own works and collections to the city formed the base of the museum. Housed in the former Massilian Hotel, a building with its own historical significance, the museum has grown through the years with subsequent donations and acquisitions.
From the 19th century onwards, the museum underwent several expansions, allowing it to display a broader range of artwork. It received major architectural renovations and expansions in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, which have modernized its facilities and exhibition spaces.
The museum boasts an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the 14th to the 21st centuries, including pieces by masters such as Rubens, Delacroix, Courbet, and more recently, Soulages.
The Musée Fabre attracts tourists from all over the world, drawn to its wealth of classical and contemporary artworks. It's an integral part of Montpellier's cultural scene and serves as a prominent center for artistic display and learning. Tourists often visit the museum as part of a larger trip to this historic French city, combining their museum experience with visits to the city's other attractions, such as the Place de la Comédie, Montpellier Cathedral, and the historical district of Écusson.
In recent years, the Musée Fabre has been keeping up with the latest tourism trends by offering a variety of innovative experiences:
These initiatives have kept the museum relevant and attractive in the digital age, while also ensuring that it remains a must-visit destination for tourists in France.