Palais Rohan (Strasbourg)

Palais Rohan (Strasbourg)

Known as the "Little Versailles," the Palais Rohan was built between 1732 and 1742 for the Archbishop of Strasbourg. It is a renowned Baroque building in Strasbourg, France, and has housed three major museums since the late 19th century: the Archaeological Museum (in the basement), the Museum of Decorative Arts (on the ground floor), and the Museum of Fine Arts (on the first and second floors). The Galerie Robert Heitz is also located in a wing of the building.

Since its completion, the palace has hosted numerous prominent royals. In 1744, Louis XV stayed here, followed by Marie Antoinette in 1770. In 1805, 1806, and 1809, Napoleon I resided here and modified some rooms to suit his and his wife Josephine's tastes. In 1810, Napoleon’s second wife, Marie Louise, spent her first night on French soil here. Another royal guest was Charles X in 1828. From 1872 to 1898, the palace served as the main building of the University of Strasbourg until new premises were built. In 1920, it was classified as a French historical monument by the French Ministry of Culture.

Today, the basement of the Palais Rohan houses the Museum of Fine Arts, which displays artifacts dating back to the year 800. The ground floor is home to the Museum of Decorative Arts, featuring the luxurious apartments once inhabited by the Cardinal, as well as precious clocks and porcelain. The Museum of Fine Arts, located on the first and second floors, exhibits European paintings from the Middle Ages to 1870.

Palais Rohan, Strasbourg

Must-visit reason: Strasbourg’s most famous “Little Versailles”

Continent: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region: France[France]

Province/State: Alsace Region [Alsace Region]

City: Strasbourg [Strasbourg]