[2024 Paris Attraction] Travel Guide for 8th Arrondissement (Updated Oct)

Musée Nissim de Camondo.

The Musée Nissim de Camondo is located in the heart of the 8th arrondissement of Paris. It is a well-preserved 18th-century mansion, where every item, every piece of furniture, and every work of art tells a story. This is an invitation to travel back in time and explore French art and culture. If you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, or just curious, this museum is a must-visit during your stay in Paris. This mansion was built between 1911 and 1914, commissioned by the Jewish banker and collector Moïse de Camondo. Inspired by the Petit Trianon in Versailles, he commissioned the architect René Sergent to build a residence to showcase his collection of 18th-century art. De Camondo chose 63 rue de Monceau, which provided an ideal backdrop for this luxurious building surrounded by formal gardens. Unfortunately, the de Camondo family suffered tragedies, including the death of his son Nissim in World War I and the deportation of several family members in World War II due to their Jewish ancestry. In memory of his son Nissim, Moïse bequeathed the house and its collection to the Union Centrale des Arts Décoratifs, stipulating that it be kept as it was at the time of his death. The museum opened to the public in 1935, preserving the cultural heritage of the de Camondo family. - Grand Dining Room: This room is a masterpiece of interior architecture, with its woodwork, ornate ceiling, and period furniture evoking the luxury of the time. - Library: It houses a large collection of old books and manuscripts, reflecting the de Camondo family's educational background and refined taste. - Kitchen: A faithful reproduction of an 18th-century kitchen, it offers a unique immersive experience. Here, you can discover the utensils, cast iron cookware, and even traditional recipes of the time.