Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain

Overview

The Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain de Strasbourg (MAMCS) is a striking glass-fronted building on the River Ill, housing one of France's finest collections of modern and contemporary art from 1870 to the present. Its collection includes major Impressionist, Surrealist, and post-war works.

Highlights

• Impressionism to Surrealism: Works by Monet, Kandinsky, Ernst, and Arp trace the evolution of modern art.
• Alsatian Artists: A notable section on Jean Arp and Sophie Taeuber-Arp, pioneers of Dada and abstract art who lived in Strasbourg.
• The Terrace: A riverside terrace café with views across the Ill to Petite France.

History

Opened in 1998 in a purpose-built building designed by Adrien Fainsilber, the museum combines the former Musée d'Art Moderne with contemporary acquisitions. Its 18,000 m² span the transition from Impressionism through the avant-garde to contemporary installation art.

Visitor Tips

• Combine with Petite France: The museum sits adjacent to Petite France — plan a combined visit.
• Riverside Walk: Walk along the Ill from the museum to the Ponts Couverts and Barrage Vauban.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.