Musée Jules Bastien-Lepage et de la Fortification

About the museum

The museum occupies the former school of the upper citadel of Montmédy. This stronghold, founded in the 13th century, has been a border fortress since the 16th century. After its capture by Louis XIV, Vauban reworked its defenses, and General Séré de Rivières transformed them between 1874 and 1880.

The visit has two sections. The first is devoted to Jules Bastien-Lepage, a painter born in Damvillers who studied in Verdun and then in Paris under Alexandre Cabanel, and whose works were shown at the Salon from 1870 until his death in 1884. It brings together the artist's drawings, prints, paintings, sculptures and personal objects.

The second section, on fortification, uses maps, models, reconstructions and photographs to trace the evolution of defensive systems on the Meuse, from prehistory to the 18th century. The ticket also grants access to the circuit of the ramparts, which extends the visit.

Highlights

• Drawings, prints, paintings and sculptures by Jules Bastien-Lepage
• Personal objects of the painter
• Maps, models and reconstructions of the defenses of the Meuse
• Tactile models and braille information sheets
• Circuit of the citadel ramparts included in the ticket

Permanent exhibitions

• Section Jules Bastien-Lepage – Drawings, prints, paintings, sculptures and personal objects of the painter of the Meuse, with braille elements and reconstructed paintings to touch.
• Section Fortification – Maps, models, reconstructions and photographs on the defense systems of the Meuse, from prehistory to the 18th century.

Operated by

Musées de la Meuse (conservation départementale)

Visitors per year

approx. 21,731

Admission & discounts

The ticket gives access to the museum and to the circuit of the ramparts. Free admission for residents of the Pays de Montmédy, on presentation of proof.

Accessibility

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

The museum is spread over two levels connected by narrow staircases; it is listed as not accessible to visitors with reduced mobility. The Bastien-Lepage section offers braille elements and reconstructed paintings to touch, and tactile models and braille information sheets make the visit easier for visually impaired visitors.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide

The “Montmercredy” take place every Wednesday during school holidays at 14:00: free activity, booking recommended. A children's puzzle booklet is available for download.

Getting there & parking

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

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