Musée de l’Orangerie.
Stunning. Calming. Deceiving complex. Nuanced in hidden ways.
These were the words I would use to describe Musée de l’Orangeries most famous exhibit – Monet’s Water Lilies.
Musée de l’Orangerie is located next to the Jardin des Tuileries. The building was originally constructed by Napoleon III to protect the citrus trees of the Tuileries garden from winter. Overall, the museum is a fraction of the size of it far larger sibling the Musée d’Orsay that is across the river – both of which house impressionist and post-impressionist art.
What makes the Orangerie special is Monet’s Water Lilies. Originally the Water Lilies were intended to go elsewhere. However, Monet was convinced to donate the paintings (which span eight panels, each two metres high and spanning 91 metres in length) to the State. Monet personally designed and laid out the rooms.
What’s Cool…
The Water Lilies are as amazing as you think they will be. And the secret second room, that 90% of people seem to never go in for the second half of the work may actually allow you to view The Water Lilies as Monet intended – in silent meditation.
Tbe rest of the collection was actually really impressive as well. And because most folks spent the majority of their time in the Water Lilies exhibit, the rest of the museum wasn’t terribly crowded.
What’s Not So Cool…
Ok I loved this museum. If there was a drawback it was its small size. Which meant that there could be long lines.
Also, people don’t really observe the Water Lilies as Monet intended so there is a room attendant constantly asking for silence. Which is just annoying but understandable. There are also so many people taking selfies.
Tips To Enhance Your Visit To L'Orangerie
Here are some tips to help make your visit to l’Orangerie even better:
- Don’t miss the secret second room of the Water Lilies exhibit. There is a small entrance that room on the far side of where you enter the first room. 90% of people miss it.
- Definitely buy your tickets online as the line to get in can be substantial.
- Go early. Then you can spend some time in reflection/meditation in the beautiful Jardin des Tuileries right out back of the museum. It’s a beautiful way to feel Parisian life.
- While it was not super crowded the day I went, I can see how it might be.
For an In-depth Review:
For a more in-depth review and tour, check out my Youtube video!!! And while you are there please hit the like and subscribe button so you can follow along on my journey and never miss an update on cool things to see or places to go!!!!!