Musée Bartholdi

Musée Bartholdi: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Colmar Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Discovering the Legacy of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi

Nestled in the heart of Colmar’s enchanting old town, the Musée Bartholdi is a cultural landmark that celebrates the life and work of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi—visionary French sculptor and creator of the Statue of Liberty. Housed in Bartholdi’s 18th-century birthplace at 30 rue des Marchands, this museum invites visitors to explore a remarkable collection of original sketches, scale models, personal artifacts, and immersive exhibits that illuminate both the artist’s genius and the rich heritage of the Alsace region.

Recognized with the prestigious “Musée de France” and “Maisons des Illustres” labels, the Musée Bartholdi stands at the crossroads of art, history, and regional identity, offering insights into 19th-century Franco-American relations, monumental sculpture, and the enduring traditions of Alsace. Whether you are an art lover, history enthusiast, or cultural traveler, this guide provides all the essential information on visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, guided tours, and how to enrich your Colmar experience by exploring nearby historical attractions.

For official updates and further details, visit the Musée Bartholdi website, or consult citypass.tourisme-colmar.com for visitor benefits.

About the Musée Bartholdi: Origins and Significance
Highlights of the Museum’s Collection and Exhibits
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Guided Tours and Educational Programs
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Practical Tips for a Smooth Visit
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

About the Musée Bartholdi: Origins and Significance

Historical Roots

The Musée Bartholdi occupies the very house where Bartholdi was born in 1834. This 18th-century townhouse, with Renaissance arcades revealed during restorations, is itself a historical artifact (en.wikipedia.org; colmar.fr). After Bartholdi’s widow, Jeanne-Emilie, bequeathed the property to Colmar in 1907, it was transformed into a museum dedicated to the sculptor’s life and legacy. The museum was inaugurated in 1922, and its façade and gates are classified as historical monuments (fr.wikipedia.org).

Cultural Recognition

In 2011, the museum received the “Maisons des Illustres” label, affirming its significance as the residence of a notable historical figure, and the “Musée de France” national designation, underscoring its contribution to France’s cultural heritage (fr.wikipedia.org).

Highlights of the Museum’s Collection and Exhibits

Ground Floor: Colmar and Alsace Works

Public Monuments: Explore models of nine public monuments Bartholdi designed for Colmar (1856–1902), including the Fontaine Bartholdi and “Les Grands Soutiens du Monde,” a monumental bronze group in the courtyard (colmar.fr).
Alsatian Heritage: The museum features artifacts reflecting Alsace’s cultural identity, such as regional costumes and textiles.

First Floor: Bartholdi’s Private World

Recreated Living Quarters: Step into Bartholdi’s last Parisian apartment, furnished with family heirlooms, personal effects, and ancestral portraits.
Private Artifacts: Discover letters, photographs, and personal tools that bring Bartholdi’s daily life and creative process to life.

Second Floor: Monumental Art and International Legacy

Statue of Liberty: View original models, technical drawings, and a scale replica of Lady Liberty’s face, plus immersive displays on the challenges of constructing this Franco-American symbol (atlasobscura.com).
The Lion of Belfort: See models and documentation of this famed monument to French resilience.
Artistic Process: Examine original sketches, maquettes, studio tools, and archival photographs.

Temporary Exhibitions and Thematic Displays

The museum hosts rotating exhibitions and scholarly collaborations, ensuring fresh experiences for returning visitors (explorial.com).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Location: 30 rue des Marchands, 68000 Colmar, France (colmar.fr)
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–12:00 and 14:00–18:00 (last entry 17:30). Closed Mondays and select public holidays (tourisme-colmar.com).
Admission Prices: Standard adult: €6–7; reduced rate (students, seniors): €4; children under 18: free. For current pricing and seasonal offers, consult the official website.
Tickets: Purchase at the entrance or online; the Colmar City Pass includes entry and access to other local attractions (citypass.tourisme-colmar.com).
Accessibility: The museum offers ramps and adapted facilities, but some areas may be less accessible due to historic architecture. Contact in advance for assistance.
Photography: Permitted in most areas (no flash).

Guided Tours and Educational Programs

Guided Tours: Available in French, German, English, Italian, and Japanese. Advance booking is recommended—perfect for groups or visitors seeking expert insights (thecrazytourist.com).
Educational Activities: School programs, interactive workshops, and hands-on experiences are offered throughout the year, fostering engagement for younger audiences (explorial.com).

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Getting There: The museum is a 15–20 minute walk from Colmar train station; nearby public parking is available but can fill quickly during peak times.
Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with the Unterlinden Museum, Toy Museum, Little Venice district, and Alsace Wine Museum (My Weekend in Alsace).
Dining and Shopping: The surrounding pedestrian zone offers cafés, restaurants, and boutiques for a full Colmar experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Musée Bartholdi opening hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–12:00 and 14:00–18:00. Closed Mondays and select holidays.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Adults: €6–7; reduced: €4; under 18: free.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Partially; contact staff for assistance due to the historic structure.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in multiple languages. Book in advance for the best experience.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, except where otherwise indicated.

Q: Are tickets required in advance?
A: Not mandatory, but online booking is suggested during busy periods.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Visit

Arrive Early: Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
Language: French is primary; bring a translation app for more detailed English or German explanations.
Comfort: Wear comfortable shoes; stairs are present and accessibility is limited.
Travel Light: No formal cloakroom—small bags preferred.
Combine Your Visit: Plan to see neighboring museums and stroll Colmar’s picturesque streets.
Stay Updated: Check the official website for current opening hours and special events.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Musée Bartholdi is a cornerstone of Colmar’s cultural landscape—an essential destination for anyone interested in art, history, and the legacy of one of France’s most influential sculptors. Its carefully curated exhibits, historical setting, and central location make it ideal for both focused museum visits and broader explorations of Alsace’s heritage.

Plan your visit by consulting official museum information, consider booking a guided tour, and enhance your experience with the Colmar City Pass. Don’t forget to download the Audiala app for curated audio guides and interactive maps, and follow the museum on social media for the latest updates and events. Embrace the spirit of discovery at the Musée Bartholdi—where art, history, and the heart of Alsace meet.