Musée Masséna, Nice, France - SpottingHistory.com

Originally built as a holiday home for Prince Victor d’Essling (the grandson of one of Napoleon’s favourite generals, Maréchal Massena), the lavish belle-époque Musée Masséna is another of the city’s iconic architectural landmarks. Built between 1898 and 1901 in grand neoclassical style with an Italianate twist, it’s now a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of the Riviera – taking in everything from holidaying monarchs to expat Americans, the boom of tourism and the enduring importance of Carnival.

Although the museum itself is rather spotty and unfocused, the sumptuous villa is a pleasure to explore. There are some very intriguing artifacts, artworks and displays (especially on Napoleon), but you will probably not catch the full significance due to complete lack of English explanations; and even if you do read French, the signs are dryly written and difficult to read.

The first floor is decorated with artwork, antique furnishings and personal effects from the Massena family that built this home, and whose family history was deeply entwined with Napoleon and the history of Nice. The second floor is consecrated on thematic elements of the history of Nice from the 19th century through just before WWII, including military memorabilia and uniforms.

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Museums in France

User Reviews

v (2 years ago)
One of the best museums I’ve ever visited. The location is amazing and the building is beautiful. You can stroll around inside and see some exquisite artwork. Also, I went during the LEGO exhibit about French history and this was quite a treat!

Sarah Cross (2 years ago)
Some interesting history and nice relaxing gardens. The museum can be seen quite quickly so best to get the most out of the ticket which allows access to lots of museums in Nice in 24 hrs for 10 Euros.

Nawalyath SOULE ADAM (2 years ago)
Very interesting place, with many historics paints or places made in Lego. Interesting learn more about the history of France!

David Clarke (3 years ago)
A grand building with a collection of mainly finely painted French portraiture. Many of the figure are famous French bourgeoise individuals. Potted around there are Lego examples of fine art, which add an alternative artistic form. There is a room dedicated to views of Nice last and present. The top floor has a display dedicated to French activates fighting against fascism. I wished there were more English translations.

Giorgio Daveed (3 years ago)
Amazing museum surrounded by an amazing city with an incredible vibe one of 40 cities in have visited in France and Nice is just incredible. I can't explain the atmosphere with merely words one needs to experience and taken in the breadth and width of this majestic city. Back to the museum it was very interesting almost a blend of contemporary and classic art mixture.

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