Paris Museums
The Enchanting History of the Musée Rodin and Its Rose Garden
“The artist is the confidant of nature, flowers carry on dialogues with him through the graceful bending of their stems and the harmoniously tinted nuances of their blossoms. Every flower has a cordial word which nature directs towards him.”
A Journey Through Time
Nestled in the heart of Paris, the Musée Rodin is a beacon of culture and history, attracting art enthusiasts and Francophiles from around the world. Not only is it the home to some of Auguste Rodin's most celebrated sculptures, but it also boasts a breathtaking rose garden that serves as a serene oasis for visitors.
and Art in the Heart of Paris
In this article, we explore the rich history of this exceptional museum and the charm of its rose garden, providing a deeper appreciation for the countless admirers of French culture and art.
“There is grace in elegance, but beyond grace there is perfection.”
A Historic Residence: The Hôtel Biron
The story of the Musée Rodin begins with the Hôtel Biron, an 18th-century mansion that now houses the museum's impressive collection. Constructed between 1727 and 1737 for a wealthy financier named Abraham Peyrenc de Moras, the Hôtel Biron was designed by architect Jean Aubert. Over the years, the property changed hands several times, becoming a boarding school, a convent, and even a government office.
In 1908, Auguste Rodin rented four rooms on the ground floor of the then-abandoned Hôtel Biron. He used these rooms as his studio, where he created some of his most iconic works, including "The Thinker" and "The Gates of Hell." Rodin's presence attracted other artists, including Henri Matisse and Isadora Duncan, who rented spaces in the building as well.
In 1916, the French government purchased the Hôtel Biron with the intent of demolishing it. However, Rodin struck a deal to save the building: in exchange for turning the Hôtel Biron into a museum dedicated to his work, he would donate his entire collection to the French state. The government agreed, and the Musée Rodin officially opened its doors on November 4, 1919, just two years after the artist's death.
Paris Museums
A Blossoming Attraction: The Rose Garden
The rose garden is an integral part of the Musée Rodin's charm, offering visitors a tranquil escape from the bustling streets of Paris. The garden was originally designed by landscape architect Achille Duchêne in the early 20th century.With over 2,000 rose bushes spanning more than 150 varieties, the garden provides a colorful and fragrant backdrop for some of Rodin's most famous sculptures.
Among the blossoms, visitors can admire iconic pieces such as "The Burghers of Calais," "The Gates of Hell," and "The Thinker."
The rose garden also serves as a symbol of the enduring connection between Rodin and his muse, Camille Claudel. Legend has it that Rodin planted a rose bush in her honor, which continues to bloom to this day.
The Musée Rodin and its enchanting rose garden provide a captivating experience for visitors, allowing them to explore the life and works of Auguste Rodin in a unique setting. The museum's rich history, coupled with the beauty of the garden, offers a testament to the power of art and the enduring appeal of French culture. For those with a passion for history, art, and nature, the Musée Rodin and its rose garden are an essential destination in the City of Light.
I highly suggest visiting the website of Musée Rodin for the latest hours of operation, exceptional closures, and to purchase tickets in advance.
ROSE GARDENS OF PARIS, FRANCE
Parc de la Villette
Parc de la Villette is a vast park in the 19th district that is home to a beautiful rose garden. With over 1,000 roses in a variety of colors, the garden is a perfect place for a picnic or a walk.Jardin de l'Orangerie
Jardin de l'Orangerie is a peaceful garden located in the heart of the Luxembourg Gardens. With its tranquil lakes, winding paths, and colorful blooms, this garden is the perfect place to relax and escape.Parc de Bagatelle
Parc de Bagatelle is a magnificent rose garden in the Bois de Boulogne. With over 10,000 roses, the garden is a true oasis of peace and tranquility in the heart of the city.Jardin de la Serre d'Auteuil
Visitors can admire the over 2,000 roses in a variety of colors, explore the garden's historic greenhouses, and enjoy a picnic in the tranquil surroundings.Parc Floral de Paris
The Parc Floral de Paris is a beautiful park located in the 12th arrondissement. The park is home to a stunning rose garden, with over 2,500 roses in a variety of colors and scents.Square Saint-Gilles
This is one of my favorite rose gardens in Paris. Picnic and dog-friendly, it's tucked inside an interior courtyard, away from the city's traffic. A true respite!
Rose Festivals AND FLORAL EVENTS
WEEKEND OF THE ROSE
Discover exhibitions on the botanical garden of Paris and the international competition of roses of Bagatelle: artistic workshops around the rose and advice and demonstrations by gardeners and florists. JUNE 2023.
CHÂTEAU CHANTILLY PLANT FAIR
An unmissable event dedicated to plants, biodiversity, and garden trends, the Chantilly Plant Days bring together more than 200 of the most prestigious nurseries and exhibitors in Europe. MAY 12 - 14.
CHAALIS ABBEY
The Domaine de Chaalis invites you to the 22nd edition of the Rose Days on 9, 10, and 11 June, 2023, with the theme "The Rose and Photography" and photographer Nikos Aliagas as patron! LINK.
ROSE TRIALS
The International Rose Trials will be held in Paris on June 15, 2023 and in Orléans on September 8, 2023. The full list of international trails can be found here. Please visit the WorldRose.org website for more info.
Compiègne GARDEN FAIR
An unmissable event for all nature and gardening enthusiasts. This 2-day show will allow you to discover the latest trends in floral decoration and landscaping. MAY 6 - 7.
Geranium Festival Beuvron-en-Auge
Beuvron-en-Auge will host its traditional geranium festival on Sunday, May 7, where horticulturists, amateurs and plant lovers will come to offer visitors their finest productions in this most beautiful village in Calvados.
SEEDS & PLANTS
Check out these providers in France.
ASSOCIATION KOKOPELLI : Non-profit organization based in Le Mas d'Azil, France.
GRAINES BAUMAUX : Europe's largest selection of seeds.
ROSES ANDRE EVE : This is one of the gardens mentioned on the rose route.
MEILLAND RICHARDIER : Rose breeder since 1867. More than 200 roses in the catalog, more than 3,500 references.
ROSERAIE DUCHER : Delivery in France and Europe, see the article for connections in the United States.
ROSIERS ANGLAIS : This is Sue's website, if you'd like a David Austin & live in France.
HAUT-BOIS HYDRANGEAS : 13 hectare landscaped park, completely unique in Europe, 750 different varieties of hydrangeas.
TRAFFAUT & LEROY MERLIN : Large chain supply stores located throughout France. Great for urgent needs.
LA FERME DE SAINTE MARTHE : Since 1974. Aromatic, medicinal, & hard to find seeds, bulbs, & tubers.
