MUSÉE DE VENCE - FONDATION ÉMILE HUGUES

Built in the 17th century by the Lords of Villeneuve in the heart of the medieval city, this superb castle with a 12th century watchtower was bequeathed to the city in 1966 by Emile Hugues, former minister and mayor of Vence. The site is then entirely dedicated to art and youth, in accordance with the conditions of the bequest whose ambition was to initiate young people to art, and becomes the museum of Vence. It developed an annual program of exhibitions of national scope presenting the greatest names in 20th century painting. The museum of modern and contemporary art presents exhibitions of various artists. A specialized bookstore offers a selection of books, posters and objects related to the Château.

On the^2nd floor, the permanent space presents a selection of works by Matisse, leader of Fauvism, from the municipal collection. The painter settled here in 1943 and fell in love with the city and its light, its gentle way of life, which reminded him of the atmosphere of Tahiti, so dear to his heart. It is mainly graphic works (charcoals, lithographs, etchings ...). The visitor will discover 64 works reflecting the major themes of the painter: portraits and variations, works related to the Rosary Chapel, and illustrated book processes. In addition to this collection, photographs by Henri Cartier-Bresson or Robert Capa will testify to the daily life of the artist during his stay in Vence.