Maison Ravier

About the museum

The Maison Ravier is an early 18th-century Dauphiné-style house built on the highest of the garden terraces of Morestel’s old town. The owners are known from 1730, when Joseph Pécoud bought the house; Claude Pécoud had it renovated in 1756. The painter François Auguste Ravier (1814–1895), a major figure of the Lyon school of landscape painting, lived here from 1867 until his death and made it one of his favorite subjects.

A restoration, funded by public and private partners, began in 1991. The François-Auguste Ravier cultural center opened its doors on April 24, 1992. It is run by the association of the Friends of the Maison Ravier (AMRA). In 2010 the commune of Corbelin entrusted the house with the collection of François Guiguet, which comprises nearly 4,000 pieces, mostly drawings, as well as watercolors and oils.

The permanent display is organized chronologically around Ravier: landscapes, watercolors and drawings, including views of the Levaz pond, the Morestel wash house and the courtyard of his house. It also presents intimate scenes and portraits of children by François Guiguet (1860–1937), as well as sculptures by Jeanne Bardey (1872–1954). Each year the house hosts temporary exhibitions and organizes visits, workshops and events for families and schools.

Highlights

• Landscapes and watercolors by Auguste Ravier, in his former home
• Views of Morestel: the wash house, the Levaz pond, the courtyard of the house
• Collection of nearly 4,000 works by François Guiguet, mostly drawings
• Sculptures by Jeanne Bardey
• 18th-century Dauphiné house with original kitchen and stone fireplace

Permanent exhibition

• Collection permanente : Ravier, Guiguet, Bardey – Landscapes, watercolors and drawings by Auguste Ravier, intimate scenes by François Guiguet and sculptures by Jeanne Bardey, presented in the painter’s former home.

Founded

1992

Operated by

Association des Amis de la Maison Ravier (AMRA)

Admission & discounts

Free admission: European Heritage Days

Free admission also for residents of Morestel with proof and for AMRA members with a valid card. Payment in cash or by bank card. Advance booking is possible through the online ticketing system.

Accessibility

• Partially wheelchair accessible
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

People with reduced mobility can access the permanent exhibition; the temporary exhibition is reached by a staircase. A reserved space is in front of the entrance; it is advisable to call before the visit.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Baby changing facilities

Free family activities during school holidays (only the entry ticket is paid), for children aged 0 to 6 and 7 to 10, as well as snack workshops from age 6 (€6, about 2 hours, snack provided). A changing table, baby carrier and toilet seat reducer are available.

Getting there & parking

Morestel is about 30 minutes from Bourgoin-Jallieu and about an hour from Lyon, Grenoble and Chambéry, via the A43 (exits 7 L’Isle-d’Abeau, 10 Les Avenières – Les Abrets) or the A48 then the A43 (exit 9 from Grenoble). Cycling access via the ViaRhôna; four bike racks in the courtyard. Carpooling is possible with the Karos app.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit