The Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac Museum, inaugurated in 2006 at Jacques Chirac’s initiative, showcases non-Western arts from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. Designed by Jean Nouvel and nestled in Gilles Clément’s lush garden, it’s located on Paris’s Left Bank under the iconic Eiffel Tower.

The museum’s architecture is striking: a glass façade with printed sunscreens, colored blades, and columns that resemble trees or totems—creating a sensory experience of filtered light and open spaces. Patrick Blanc’s 800 m² vertical garden, featuring over 15,000 plants, brings biodiversity and serenity to an urban setting.

The permanent collection focuses on approximately 3,500 key pieces from a total of 370,000—ranging from masks and statues to textiles and ritual objects—offering an immersive journey through global cultures. Films, texts, and music accompany visitors, enhancing the experience.

The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions (such as Mission Dakar-Djibouti and Au fil de l’or), family workshops, guided tours, and cultural events like concerts and performances. Visitors enjoy relaxing at Café Jacques among the greenery, or dining at Les Ombres, the rooftop restaurant with a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower.

🕒 Practical Info
Opening hours: Tue–Sun 10:30 am–7 pm, Thursdays until 10 pm in summer; garden opens from 9:15 am.

Closed on Mondays, May 1st, and December 25th.

Access: Metro lines 6/8/9, RER C, and buses 42,63,72,80,92.

🎯 Audience & Atmosphere
The museum’s interactive and contemporary museography appeals to a diverse audience: curious tourists, families, students, researchers, and professionals. The atmosphere is contemplative yet lively, fostering cross‑cultural dialogue.

📚 Anecdotes
In 2021, the quay was named after Jacques Chirac in honor of his pivotal role.

Architect Jean Nouvel aimed for “selective dematerialization”: an architecture that fades to highlight non‑Western treasures.

🧭 Visitor Tips
Recommended visit: 2–3 hours.

Combined ticket with Musée Rodin: €23.

Free entry conditions: under 26 (EU), jobseekers, social assistance beneficiaries, disabled visitors, and every first Sunday.

Services: audio guides (€3–5), stroller loan, shop/bookstore, cloakroom.