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Université Paul Valéry de Montpellier main building

Paul Valéry Montpellier University

Montpellier, France

Paul-Valéry University Montpellier: Visiting Guide with Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Paul-Valéry University Montpellier (Université Paul-Valéry Montpellier – UPV) is a distinguished institution nestled in the heart of one of southern France’s most dynamic cities. With origins tracing back to the medieval University of Montpellier, founded in 1289, UPV has evolved into a vibrant hub for the humanities, arts, and cultural exchange. Named after the influential poet Paul Valéry, the university seamlessly blends academic tradition with contemporary cultural life, making it a compelling destination for visitors interested in history, architecture, and the arts.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview for visitors: exploring UPV’s rich history, practical visiting information (including hours and ticketing), highlights on campus, nearby historical attractions, and tips for making the most of your visit to Montpellier.

For the latest details on visiting and events, consult the Paul-Valéry-Montpellier University website and the Montpellier Tourism Official Site.

Table of Contents

Historical Overview

UPV’s lineage begins with the University of Montpellier, a center of learning established in 1289 by papal decree. Through the centuries, it became renowned for its faculties of Medicine, Law, and Arts. In 1970, the historic university was reorganized, and the institution specializing in the humanities became Montpellier III, later renamed Paul-Valéry University.

The university’s enduring commitment to the arts is evident in treasures such as the Musée des Moulages, founded in 1890, which houses an impressive collection of classical sculpture casts. UPV’s architecture reflects a fusion of medieval roots and Mediterranean modernity, offering visitors a unique journey through educational and cultural history.


Visiting Information

Location & Access

  • Main Campus: Route de Mende, north of Montpellier.
  • Additional Sites: Saint-Charles, Saint-Louis, and Boutonnet neighborhoods; Béziers (satellite campus).
  • Public Transport: Easily accessible via tram (Line 1, stop “Universités des Sciences et Lettres”) and city buses.
  • By Car: Limited parking available; public transit is recommended.

Opening Hours

  • Campus Grounds: Open to visitors daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
  • Musée des Moulages: Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Closed Sundays and Mondays.
  • Other Facilities: Library and exhibition halls generally open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (check ahead for variations).

Tickets & Entry

  • Campus: Free entry for all visitors.
  • Musée des Moulages: €3 for adults; reduced rates for students and seniors; free for children.
  • Special Events: Some lectures, exhibitions, or performances may require tickets or advance registration.

Guided Tours & Cultural Events

  • Guided Tours: Monthly tours highlighting UPV’s architectural, historical, and artistic heritage. Advance booking recommended.
  • Cultural Events: Regularly hosts exhibitions, lectures, and performances open to the public. Venues include La Vignette Theatre and the Library of Arts.

Accessibility

  • Physical Access: The campus and museum are fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms.
  • Visitor Support: Information desks offer assistance in multiple languages; advance arrangements available for special needs.

Campus Highlights

  • Musée des Moulages: Admire a rare collection of classical sculpture casts, reflecting the university’s artistic legacy.
  • La Vignette Theatre: Enjoy student productions and cultural performances.
  • Campus Architecture: Experience the blend of medieval and modern Mediterranean design.

Nearby Attractions & Travel Tips

  • Saint-Pierre Cathedral: A Gothic masterpiece with imposing twin towers, just a short walk from campus.
  • Musée Fabre: Montpellier’s premier art museum, featuring European masterpieces and contemporary exhibitions.
  • Place de la Comédie: The vibrant city square, perfect for dining and people-watching.
  • Promenade du Peyrou: 18th-century park with panoramic city views.

Travel Tips:

  • Combine your campus tour with a stroll through Montpellier’s historic center.
  • Use public transport for easy access to all key attractions.
  • The Mediterranean coast is an easy day trip from the city.

Visual Media & Virtual Tours

Explore the university and city highlights through official photo galleries and virtual tours available on the UPV website and Montpellier Tourism Official Site.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there a fee to visit UPV?
A: Campus entry is free; the Musée des Moulages charges a small admission fee.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, monthly by appointment. Check the university’s website for schedules.

Q: Is the university accessible to people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and support available.

Q: What languages are visitor materials provided in?
A: French and English, with additional support upon request.

Q: Are there public events on campus?
A: Yes, exhibitions, lectures, and performances are held regularly.


Conclusion & Final Tips

Paul-Valéry University Montpellier is a multifaceted destination where history, culture, and education intersect. From its medieval origins and renowned Musée des Moulages to its lively student life and public events, UPV offers visitors a deep dive into the city’s academic and cultural landscape.

To optimize your visit:

  • Check official resources for current hours and events.
  • Secure tickets in advance for special exhibitions or tours.
  • Download the Audiala app for audio guides and interactive maps (Audiala App Download).
  • Follow UPV’s social media for real-time updates.

Complement your university visit with excursions to the nearby Saint-Pierre Cathedral and Musée Fabre, both essential experiences for any traveler to Montpellier.

Start your journey into Montpellier’s heritage by consulting the UPV Official Site and related cultural resources.


Sources

Visit The Most Interesting Places In Montpellier

Ancien Logis Du Chapeau Rouge
Ancien Logis Du Chapeau Rouge
Ancienne Maison De La Miséricorde, Montpellier
Ancienne Maison De La Miséricorde, Montpellier
Basilica Our Lady Of The Tables
Basilica Our Lady Of The Tables
Beaulac Hotel
Beaulac Hotel
Bénézet Hotel
Bénézet Hotel
Boussugues Hotel
Boussugues Hotel
|
  Cabrières-Sabatier D'Espeyran Hotel
| Cabrières-Sabatier D'Espeyran Hotel
Campan Hotel
Campan Hotel
Carré Sainte-Anne
Carré Sainte-Anne
Castries Hotel
Castries Hotel
Chapelle De La Miséricorde
Chapelle De La Miséricorde
Church Of St. Therese Of Lisieux Montpellier
Church Of St. Therese Of Lisieux Montpellier
Claris Hotel
Claris Hotel
Comedy Square
Comedy Square
Convent Of The Visitation Of Montpellier
Convent Of The Visitation Of Montpellier
Departmental Archives Of Hérault
Departmental Archives Of Hérault
|
  École De L'Infanterie
| École De L'Infanterie
Estorc Hotel
Estorc Hotel
Fabre Museum
Fabre Museum
Faculté De Théologie Protestante (Montpellier, France)
Faculté De Théologie Protestante (Montpellier, France)
Faculty Of Medicine Of Montpellier
Faculty Of Medicine Of Montpellier
Former Penitentiary Of Montpellier
Former Penitentiary Of Montpellier
Fourques Hotel
Fourques Hotel
Ganges Hotel
Ganges Hotel
Gate Of Peyrou
Gate Of Peyrou
Gayon Hotel
Gayon Hotel
Grave Hotel
Grave Hotel
Hotel Of Hostalier
Hotel Of Hostalier
Hotel Of The Royal Society Of Sciences
Hotel Of The Royal Society Of Sciences
Hotel Of The Vineyards
Hotel Of The Vineyards
Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier
Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier
Lamouroux Hotel
Lamouroux Hotel
Lefevre Hotel
Lefevre Hotel
Magny Mansion
Magny Mansion
Manse Hotel
Manse Hotel
Mas De Bagnères
Mas De Bagnères
Montferrier Hotel
Montferrier Hotel
Montpellier 2 University
Montpellier 2 University
Montpellier Cathedral
Montpellier Cathedral
Montpellier-Saint-Roch Railway Station
Montpellier-Saint-Roch Railway Station
Montpellier Sud De France Station
Montpellier Sud De France Station
Montpellier To Palavas Train
Montpellier To Palavas Train
Montpellier University Hospital
Montpellier University Hospital
National Choreographic Center Of Montpellier
National Choreographic Center Of Montpellier
Old Montpellier Museum
Old Montpellier Museum
Opéra National De Montpellier
Opéra National De Montpellier
Palais Des Sports René-Bougnol
Palais Des Sports René-Bougnol
|
  Parc Des Sports De L'Avenue Pont Juvénal
| Parc Des Sports De L'Avenue Pont Juvénal
Paul-Valéry-Montpellier University
Paul-Valéry-Montpellier University
Perier Hotel
Perier Hotel
Pomier-Layrargues Hotel
Pomier-Layrargues Hotel
Prefecture Fountain
Prefecture Fountain
Promenade Of Peyrou
Promenade Of Peyrou
Protestant Cemetery In Montpellier
Protestant Cemetery In Montpellier
Querelles Hotel
Querelles Hotel
Roquemore Hotel
Roquemore Hotel
Saint-Felix Hotel
Saint-Felix Hotel
Saint-Mathieu Church Of Montpellier
Saint-Mathieu Church Of Montpellier
Sarret Hotel
Sarret Hotel
Solas Hotel
Solas Hotel
Stade De La Mosson
Stade De La Mosson
Stade Richter
Stade Richter
Stade Sabathé
Stade Sabathé
Stade Yves-Du-Manoir
Stade Yves-Du-Manoir
Temple Of Maguelone Street
Temple Of Maguelone Street
Théâtre Des 13 Vents
Théâtre Des 13 Vents
Tour De La Babotte
Tour De La Babotte
|
  Treasurer'S Hotel Of The Stock Exchange
| Treasurer'S Hotel Of The Stock Exchange
Verchant Hotel
Verchant Hotel