Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille
One of France's largest art museums, second only to the Louvre, with masterpieces by Rubens, Goya and Delacroix and a famous collection of fortress-town models.
Founded in 1892, the Palais des Beaux-Arts covers everything from ancient artifacts and medieval art to 19th-century painting. Highlights include Goya’s “Old Woman” and “Young Girl” and Rubens’ “Christ Taken Down from the Cross.” The basement’s three-dimensional models of border fortress towns from the reign of Louis XIV (plans-reliefs) are truly unique. Closed on Tuesdays, open Monday afternoons. The permanent collection costs about 8 euros. The museum is on Place de la République, a short walk from République–Beaux-Arts metro station. Plan to spend 2–3 hours.
Opening hours
Mon 14:00–18:00; Wed–Sun 10:00–18:00; closed Tuesdays
Nearby sights
- Palais Rihour & Place Rihour
- Porte de Paris
- Grand Place (Place du Général-de-Gaulle)
- Vieille Bourse
- Church of Saint-Maurice
- Belfry of Lille Town Hall
- Maison Méert
- Opéra de Lille