The Galeries de Montpensier et de Valois are a pair of connected art galleries in the heart of Paris. It is the renowned Galeries du Palais Royal or renowned galleries of the Royal Palace.
Initially built in the 16th century, they have been extensively renovated and expanded over the years and now offer a beautiful and spacious setting for exhibitions of all kinds.
Learn about the the Galerie de Montpensier and La Galerie de Valois of the Palais Royal below.
What is Galeries de Montpensier et de Valois?
Surrounding the secluded garden of the Palais Royal, the ceilings of the Galeries could do with a bit of restoration. However, the place is still unique, and you can find quite a few luxury boutiques such as Marc Jacobs, StellaMc Cartney, Shiseido, Jérôme l’Huillier, Rick Owens, or Delage.
In the smaller Galerie Beaujolais, the Grand Véfour restaurant can welcome you for an unforgettable gastronomic meal, unless it’s sunny and you prefer to sit outside for a drink or a snack in one of the few cafés and restaurants offering a terrace.
History Galeries de Montpensier et de Valois
The year 1780 was a watershed moment in the history of the Palais Royal, which has retained its appearance to this day.
The Palais-Royal becomes the property of the third generation of Orléans, great-grandson of Regent Louis Philippe Joseph d’Orléans, Duke of Chartres (futur duc d’Orléans of the future Duke of Orléans). He was heavily in debt and began a real estate speculation project.
He decided to split the site into three parts and rent the ground floors to merchants, making the Palais-Royal the main attraction for all of Paris.
The new structures will link to several new street names honoring the Duke’s boys, including rue de Montpensier to the garden’s west, rue de Beaujolais to the north, and rue de Valois to the east.
Victor Louis’ garden has 180 arcades separated by Corinthian pilasters lit by 188 lampposts hanging from the arches of the arcades on the façade.
Each house has a ground level and a mezzanine that returns to the gallery and a noble floor, and a second lesser one. The third floor and attic for servants are partially hidden by a railing supporting vases.
Other galleries were constructed inside, of which the lovely colonnades remain; the beautiful Orleans Gallery (la Galerie d’Orléans), with its magnificent columned arcades.
Philippe Egalité, the Duke of Orléans (Le duc d’Orléans), wanted to hide his large expenditures by extending the Palace Royal and renting the ground floor to merchants and keepers of gaming dens, turning the Palais Royal into a genuine city of gambling and pleasure.
Three of the four planned structures were finished to Victor Louis’ specifications in 1786.
See Related: Passages and Galeries
Getting There
The Galeries is located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, just a short walk from the Louvre Museum. The closest metro station to go to is Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre, which is on lines 1 and 7.
If you’re coming by car, several parking options are in the vicinity.
Best Things to Do in Galeries de Montpensier et de Valois
Here are some of the best things to do in Galeries de Montpensier et de Valois:
- Explore the various art galleries and exhibitions on display
- Take a break in one of the charming cafes or restaurants like the Café du Foy and Le Grand Véfour
- Shop till you drop in the various boutiques and stores
- Admire the architecture of the Galeries du Palais Royal themselves
Galeries de Montpensier et de Valois Nearby Hotels
If you’re looking for a place near the Galeries du Palais Royal, look no further than these three amazing hotels! All located within walking distance, you’ll be able to enjoy all that the area has to offer without being too far from your comfortable room.
Shangri-La Paris
The Shangri-La Paris hotel is a luxurious five-star hotel located in the heart of Paris. It features exquisite rooms, as well as top-of-the-line amenities and services. Whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, the Shangri-La Paris will make your stay a memorable one.
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The Peninsula Paris
The Peninsula Paris hotel is one of the most luxurious and exclusive hotels. It’s located in the heart of Paris, on the Avenue Kleber, and offers guests stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe.
The hotel features about 200 rooms and suites, decorated in a luxurious and modern style. The Peninsula Paris also has an on-site spa, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a rooftop bar with views of the city.
See Related: Le Roch Hotel & Spa
Le Bristol Paris
The luxurious Le Bristol Paris hotel is located in the heart of the city, just steps away from the world-famous Louvre Museum and other iconic landmarks.
This five-star hotel features spacious and elegant guest rooms and a variety of decadent on-site amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and several restaurants.
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Galeries de Montpensier et de Valois Nearby Attractions
The Galeries de Montpensier et de Valois is located in the heart of Paris, close to many of the city’s top attractions.
Louvre Museum
The Louvre museum is a world-famous museum located in Paris, France. It is the most visited art museum globally, with millions of visitors annually. The collection includes pieces from artists such as Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Rembrandt.
See Related: Best Gothic Cathedrals in Paris, France
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
Notre Dame is a cathedral located in the 4th arrondissement of Paris. The cathedral is notable for its size and intricate design. Construction on the cathedral began in 1163 and continued for over two centuries.
The cathedral was badly damaged during the French Revolution but was later restored. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Paris.
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The Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou is a museum and cultural center in Paris, France. The center, which opened in 1977, was designed by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers. It is the largest art center in Europe.
The Centre Pompidou houses the Musée National d’Art Moderne. It holds the most extensive collection of modern and contemporary art in Europe, and the Bibliothèque Publique d’Information, the largest public library in Paris.
See Related: Avenue de Chamsp Elysées
Palais Garnier
Completed in 1875, the Palais Garnier is one of the most famous opera houses in the world. Designed by Charles Garnier, it is a perfect example of the Second Empire style of architecture.
The majestic facade is adorned with statues and sculptures, and the interior is just as impressive, with a grand staircase and lavish decorations.
FAQ
How many Galeries are there?
There are two galeries: the Galerie de Montpensier and the Galerie de Valois.
What type of art is on display?
The Galeries features a range of art from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.
Are there any shops?
There are many shops to explore and enjoy shopping.
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