Musée de la Fondation de Coubertin

About the museum

The Musée de la Fondation de Coubertin is part of the Fondation de Coubertin, based on the Coubertin estate in Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse, in the Chevreuse valley. The estate's château dates from the 17th century; the Fredy de Coubertin family had owned the fief since 1577.

The museum was born in 1985 thanks to a gift from Jean Bernard, son of the sculptor Joseph Bernard (1866–1931). Sculptures and drawings by his father form the heart of the collection, which was later expanded to include French sculpture from the 19th century onwards. It received the “Musée de France” designation from the Ministry of Culture in 2002. The architect Robert Auzelle (1913–1983) designed the complex built between 1979 and 1982 around a central canal with three basins, as well as the Bronze Garden, set in a former flower garden at the foot of the château.

The works are spread across the château, the exhibition gallery, the park and the Bronze Garden. The collection consists mainly of sculptures, especially in bronze, a set of sculptors' drawings and a few photographs, as well as long-term loans and antique furniture kept in the château. Each year the museum organises a temporary exhibition and events.

Highlights

• Collection centred on the sculptor Joseph Bernard
• Auzelle's Bronze Garden, with terraces, canal and basins
• Sculptures, drawings and photographs from the 19th century to today
• 30-hectare park with outdoor sculptures
• “Musée de France” label since 2002

Permanent exhibitions

• Jardin des bronzes – Permanent outdoor exhibition space at the foot of the château, with sculptures from the mid-19th century to the present day, designed by the architect Robert Auzelle.
• Collection Joseph Bernard – Sculptures and drawings by Joseph Bernard, given by his son Jean Bernard in 1985, at the heart of the museum's collections.

Founded

1985

Operated by

Fondation de Coubertin

Visitors per year

approx. 7,555

Admission & discounts

Also free, upon up-to-date proof, for Foundation staff on duty, members of the Friends of the Fondation de Coubertin, holders of the current year's ICOM or AGCCPF card, and tour guides.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: not available
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The site is not currently accessible to people with reduced mobility. The route includes steps and requires standing for long periods. Assistance dogs are admitted.

Kids & families

Workshop visits for school groups from preschool to middle school, Monday to Friday from April 1 to October 31.

Getting there & parking

On foot from the station: about 15 minutes, following the shared cycle and walking path on the left.

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