Masterpieces and Tranquility: Exploring the Musée de l'Orangerie

When most people think of art museums in Paris, the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay are the first that come to mind. While both are must-see tourist sites for a first-time visit, the Musée de l'Orangerie is an equally captivating gem that I would highly recommend—even over the more famous options. Originally built as a greenhouse to shelter orange trees, the Orangerie was transformed in 1921 into an exhibition hall for contemporary artists. Among them was Claude Monet, who collaborated with the museum to create a space for his monumental water lily paintings, designed to help Parisians heal from the wounds of WWI. These eight stunning works envelop two rooms, immersing you in the serene beauty of his Giverny garden. I could lose myself for hours in these peaceful circular rooms.

During WWII, the Orangerie and its sister building, the Jeu de Paume, served as recovery sites for paintings confiscated during the war and played a role in the legendary efforts of the "Monuments Men." Post-war, the museum amassed an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces from artists like Renoir, Picasso, Henri Rousseau, and Modigliani. The Impressionist era, with its brilliance, joy, and spontaneity, is my absolute favorite!! Spend an hour or two strolling through this gorgeous museum, and take time to quietly ponder life in front of Monet's breathtaking water lilies.