Musée D'Art Roger-Quilliot

Introduction

The Musée d’Art Roger-Quilliot (MARQ) in Clermont-Ferrand, France, is a premier cultural institution that harmoniously blends historical heritage with modern museography. Located in a protected 17th- and 18th-century Ursuline convent, MARQ stands out for its adaptive reuse, featuring a luminous glass atrium engineered by Peter Rice and redesigned by architects Claude Gaillard and Adrien Fainsilber. As a "Musée de France," it houses a rich collection spanning from medieval sculpture to 20th-century art, and regularly stages special exhibitions—including partnerships with institutions like the Musée national des arts asiatiques – Guimet (auvergne-centrefrance.com, POP: Plateforme ouverte du patrimoine, France 3 Régions).

This guide covers everything you need to know for your visit: hours, tickets, accessibility, architectural highlights, and nearby historical attractions.

Origins and Historical Evolution

The MARQ is rooted in the history of Clermont-Ferrand’s Montferrand district, occupying a substantial section of an 18th-century Ursuline convent. Once a center for religious education, the convent’s classical design—with symmetrical lines and understated ornamentation—mirrors the architectural sensibilities of its era (auvergne-centrefrance.com).

After secularization, the building underwent several changes before being chosen as the city’s principal fine arts museum—a symbolic union of heritage and culture. In 1986, architects Fainsilber and Gaillard won the competition to transform the site, culminating in a grand reopening in 1992 as the Musée d’Art Roger-Quilliot, named for the city’s former mayor and project advocate.

Architectural Significance

Adaptive Reuse and the Glass Atrium

The transformation of MARQ exemplifies adaptive reuse: the original convent’s integrity is maintained, while bold modern interventions create a dynamic museum space. The centerpiece is a soaring glass atrium by Peter Rice, described as a palm tree or upturned umbrella, which fills the core with natural light and sets a contemplative ambiance (auvergne-destination.com).

The galleries are arranged in a circular, gently ramped pattern around the atrium, echoing the spirit of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Guggenheim. This design promotes accessibility and an intuitive flow through the museum’s three levels.

Integration of Heritage and Modernity

Historic features—stonework, vaulted ceilings, and classical proportions—are preserved, while glass, steel, and concrete are introduced with subtlety. The result is a seamless blend of past and present, with modern interventions enriching the existing structure (auvergne-centrefrance.com).

The museum’s classification as a Monument Historique underlines its cultural and architectural value, and the successful merger of old and new is often cited as a model for similar projects.

Visitor Information

Hours

• Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Thursday: Extended to 8:00 PM
• Closed: Mondays and select public holidays

Check the official MARQ website before your visit for updates.

Tickets & Admission

• General Admission: €6–€7
• Reduced Rate: €3–€4 (students, seniors, groups)
• Free Admission: Children under 18, Clermont-Ferrand residents, first Sunday of each month
• Tickets available online and at the museum.

Accessibility

• Fully accessible for visitors with reduced mobility: ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
• Assistance is available upon request.
• Information is provided in multiple formats, including braille and audio guides.

Guided Tours & Special Events

• Guided tours in French and occasionally English; advance booking recommended.
• Regular workshops, educational activities, and special exhibitions—often in partnership with national institutions (France 3 Régions).

Getting There & Travel Tips

• Address: Place Louis-Deteix, 63100 Clermont-Ferrand
• Public Transport: Tram Line A (“Musée d’Art Roger-Quilliot” stop); bus lines 20, 21, 25, 31, 33
• Cycling: C-Vélo station in front of the museum
• Parking: Public lots near Montferrand’s historic center

Permanent Collections and Must-See Highlights

The MARQ’s permanent collection spans nearly 2,000 works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, presented in a primarily chronological layout across six levels (Official MARQ Website). Key highlights:

• Medieval Art: Romanesque chapiteaux, wooden sculptures like Vierge de Vernols
• Renaissance/Early Modern: Paintings by Cornelis Engebrechtsz, sculpture by Léonard Sarson
• 17th–18th Century: Portraits by Philippe de Champaigne, marine scenes by Joseph Vernet, Boucher’s “Les Lavandières”
• 19th Century: Bartholdi’s Vercingétorix, works by Chassériau, Doré, and Claudel
• 20th Century: Paintings by Marie Laurencin, Bernard Buffet, and rotating modern exhibitions

Photography (without flash) is allowed in permanent collections. Some temporary exhibitions may have restrictions.

Community Impact and Institutional Role

MARQ is a vital part of Clermont-Ferrand’s and Auvergne’s cultural landscape. As a “Musée de France,” it maintains rigorous standards for conservation and public engagement (POP: Plateforme ouverte du patrimoine).

Community Engagement: Through guided tours, workshops, and free admission days, the museum fosters inclusivity, cultural literacy, and lifelong appreciation for the arts. Its educational outreach and partnerships—including with Musée Guimet—bring world-class art to regional audiences.

Economic & Urban Impact: MARQ is a catalyst for tourism and urban revitalization in Montferrand, supporting local businesses and artisans while contributing to Clermont-Ferrand’s vibrant cultural scene.

Visitor Experience: Guests praise the museum’s tranquil atmosphere, family-friendly programming, and the harmonious blend of old and new.

Nearby Attractions & Photographic Spots

• Historic Montferrand District: Medieval streets and unique architecture
• Place de Jaude: Central square with cafes, shops, and city energy
• Clermont-Ferrand Cathedral: Iconic Gothic structure in black volcanic stone
• Parc Montjuzet: Panoramic city views and green spaces

Photographers will find the glass atrium, convent façade, and views from the Montferrand district especially striking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; Thursday until 8:00 PM; closed Mondays.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: €6–€7 general, reduced €3–€4, free for children under 18 and on the first Sunday monthly.

Q: Is the museum accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in French and sometimes English, with advance booking recommended.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, non-flash photography is allowed in permanent collections.

Plan Your Visit

• Contact: +33 (0)4 43 76 25 25 | [email protected]
• Official website: https://marq.clermontmetropole.eu/
• Tourism portal: Clermont Auvergne Volcans

Enhance your museum visit with the Audiala app for audio guides and interactive features. For travel tips, exhibition details, and updates, consult the official website or follow MARQ’s social media channels.

Summary & Recommendations

The Musée d’Art Roger-Quilliot is a model of how historic preservation and contemporary museography can coexist, offering a unique journey through centuries of art in a setting where heritage and innovation meet. With its diverse collections, luminous architecture, and commitment to accessibility and education, MARQ is an essential stop for visitors to Clermont-Ferrand and the Auvergne region.

For updated information and to plan your visit, refer to the museum’s official resources and consider exploring nearby historical sites for a complete cultural experience (Official MARQ Website, Clermont Auvergne Volcans).