MASSEY MUSEUM - INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM OF HUSSARS
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Museum with an exceptional collection of more than 15,000 objects from around the world
The elite troop of the Hussars, the object of all fantasies, remains fascinating to this day. If art has freely drawn on the myths of this light cavalry corps, a museum was needed to grasp its full complexity. In the heart of the Jardin Massey, the museum takes you on a two-story tour of this military universe where flamboyant and rigorous pomp and circumstance was matched only by fighting virtue. Born in Hungary in the 16th century, the destiny of the Hussars is no less closely linked to the city of Tarbes and its garrisons, which pay homage to them through an exceptional collection of more than 15,000 objects drawn from around the world. Legend has it that these warriors did not get off their horses to sleep... In any case, they will keep you awake in this museum, so exciting is their epic. In chronological order, we follow them from the Ancien Régime to the Second World War through 34 countries. The international reputation of the museum lies in the richness of its exhibition, embellished with an iconographic collection of drawings and paintings, 130 mannequins and busts, and many specific equipments, which relate this adventure, by restoring it in its historical context. In parallel, a magnificent collection of fine arts with a selection of European works from the Spanish, Flemish and Italian schools: mythology, landscape, still life and religion from the 15th to the 20th century await you.
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Opening time and information on MASSEY MUSEUM - INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM OF HUSSARS
Closed December 25, January 1 and May 1. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 12pm and 2pm to 6:30pm. Free admission for children under 18. Adults: €5. Groups (10 people): €2.50. Family pass (2 adults + children): €5. Children's welcome (children's workshops (free) and families (€10)). Guided tour (€25 (approx. 1h30)).
Message from Management
Following a major campaign to restructure and renovate its premises and collections, the Musée Massey - Musée international des Hussards in Tarbes has undergone a major overhaul. Nestling in the heart of a splendid garden of precious essences, the former Moorish-style residence, overlooked by an observation tower of the Pyrenees, now houses a museum of military art and history. This is one of the first museums in the world to offer a collection devoted to the history of the Hussars. This light cavalry unit, whose roots lie in Hungary, has contributed to the city's renown. During your visit, you'll discover over 17,000 objects offering an overview of this fascinating and atypical military corps. In this collection spanning four centuries, you'll find uniforms, weapons, busts and equipment of remarkable richness and variety. You can also admire over 150 mannequins in full uniform and 600 weapons. The museum also exhibits some one hundred paintings by renowned artists such as Horace Vernet, Ernest Meissonnier and Édouard Detaille. All tell the story of the evolution of Hussar cavalry in France and around the world. The Massey Museum also offers temporary and permanent exhibitions, guided tours, educational workshops and a store where you can purchase souvenirs and gifts. Access is adapted for people with reduced mobility, and parking is available. The museum is a place of discovery and learning, where history and art meet to offer you an unforgettable experience. Enjoy your visit!
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Members' reviews on MASSEY MUSEUM - INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM OF HUSSARS
The ratings and reviews below reflect the subjective opinions of members and not the opinion of The Little Witty.
Le musée, installé dans un bâtiment majestueux au cœur d’un parc splendide, offre une expérience à la fois enrichissante et profondément émouvante. La visite se divise en deux parties : la première est consacrée aux hussards, avec une collection riche et bien mise en valeur, qui permet de plonger dans l’histoire militaire avec précision et élégance. La seconde, dédiée aux beaux-arts, propose un véritable voyage à travers les époques. Les œuvres sont présentées avec soin, dans un parcours qui retrace admirablement l’évolution des styles artistiques.
Chaque salle raconte une époque, chaque toile invite à la contemplation. Les explications sont claires, pédagogiques, et permettent de mieux comprendre les grands courants artistiques et les bouleversements culturels associés.
L’accueil, quant à lui, a été exemplaire : la personne à l’entrée était souriante, disponible et chaleureuse. J’ai eu la chance de visiter ce lieu lors d’un week-end en entrée libre, et ce moment suspendu hors du temps restera un souvenir marquant.
Un musée à découvrir absolument pour toute personne sensible à l’histoire, à l’art, ou tout simplement à la beauté.