Carré Sainte-Anne
A deconsecrated neo-Gothic church transformed into a dynamic contemporary art space, showcasing impactful exhibitions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Carré Sainte-Anne
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A deconsecrated neo-Gothic church transformed into a dynamic contemporary art space, showcasing impactful exhibitions.
"This gothic church turned art gallery was wonderfully unique and free, definitely worth a visit."
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy incredible art and architecture without spending a dime. A true gem!
📸 Capture the Art
The interplay of light and art is stunning. Perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
JR's 'Adventice' Installation
Main Nave
An awe-inspiring tree made of thousands of hands, symbolizing unity and diversity.
+1
Neo-Gothic Architecture
The entire church
Marvel at the preserved Gothic structure, a breathtaking backdrop for contemporary art.
+1
Collaborative Art Space
Throughout the venue
Experience art that grows and evolves, often incorporating community participation.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art & Architecture
Check Current Exhibitions
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy incredible art and architecture without spending a dime. A true gem!
📸 Capture the Art
The interplay of light and art is stunning. Perfect for photography enthusiasts.
⏳ Check Exhibition Dates
Installations change, so confirm what's on before you go.
🚶♀️ Explore the Details
Don't miss the intricate architectural details alongside the art.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy incredible art and architecture without spending a dime. A true gem!
📸 Capture the Art
The interplay of light and art is stunning. Perfect for photography enthusiasts.
⏳ Check Exhibition Dates
Installations change, so confirm what's on before you go.
🚶♀️ Explore the Details
Don't miss the intricate architectural details alongside the art.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Carré Sainte-Anne for its unique fusion of stunning Gothic architecture and engaging contemporary art exhibitions, especially noting JR's impactful installations. The free admission is a significant draw, making it a highly recommended cultural stop in Montpellier. Some visitors might find the exhibition content specific, but the overall experience of the space is widely appreciated.
"This place was so cool. This gothic church turned art gallery was wonderfully unique. Plus it's free so it is definitely worth a visit. They've preserved a lot of the church structure and the middle is a big open space for all different types of art exhibitions. The one I went to was very cool by L'Artiste JR which included a big beautiful tree in the middle and so many different hand scans hanging from the ceiling and from the branches of the trees as leaves. I would highly recommend coming here if you are visiting the city."
Cin Weng
"A cool place to visit!
Interesting art installations and it’s free to visit"
Jo Fowler
"10K hands of Montpellier... a cultural melting pot where diversity makes us stronger 🙏💪"
Teena French
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Carré Sainte-Anne is centrally located in Montpellier. You can easily reach it by public transport, including trams and buses that stop nearby. Walking from the city center is also a great option to explore the charming streets.
Parking in the city center can be challenging. It's recommended to use public parking garages like Comédie or Triangle, and then walk to the venue.
The renovated space is generally accessible, but it's always a good idea to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility information regarding ramps or elevators.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Carré Sainte-Anne is free! This makes it an accessible cultural spot for everyone to enjoy the art exhibitions.
Opening hours can vary depending on the exhibition. It's best to check the official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information on opening times and exhibition dates.
Yes, groups are welcome. For larger groups or guided tours, it's advisable to contact the venue in advance to make arrangements.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Carré Sainte-Anne focuses on contemporary art exhibitions. These can range from large-scale installations, like JR's 'Adventice', to photography and mixed-media works.
Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours exploring the current exhibition and appreciating the unique space.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions related to current exhibitions. Flash photography might be prohibited.
'Adventice' by artist JR is a notable exhibition that transformed the church into a space featuring an 'tree of hands,' symbolizing global connection and diversity.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Carré Sainte-Anne itself does not typically have a restaurant or cafe. However, its central location means you're surrounded by numerous cafes, bistros, and restaurants in Montpellier.
The area around Carré Sainte-Anne, especially near Rue Sainte Anne, offers a wide variety of dining options. From traditional French cuisine to international flavors, you'll find something to suit every taste.
It's generally not permitted to bring food and drinks into art exhibition spaces to protect the artworks. There are many places nearby to eat before or after your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The grand scale of the former church and the art installations can be awe-inspiring for younger visitors. While the venue itself is spacious, it's important to note that it's an art exhibition space. Encourage children to observe respectfully and discuss what they see. The central location means you can easily combine a visit with other family-friendly activities or parks in Montpellier. Consider checking the exhibition details beforehand to gauge suitability for very young children.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Culture Seekers
+1 The unique setting within a deconsecrated neo-Gothic church provides an unparalleled backdrop, enhancing the viewing experience and offering a distinct atmosphere. +1As a free-entry space, it allows for spontaneous visits and repeated exploration of different exhibitions. The focus on large-scale installations and community-involved art projects offers a fresh perspective on artistic expression. Keep an eye on their schedule for upcoming shows that align with your interests.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of JR at Carré Sainte-Anne
+1 The work aimed to highlight themes of unity, diversity, and the interconnectedness of humanity, using the sacred space of the church to amplify its message. +1JR's approach often involves large-scale photographic collages and public art projects that engage directly with communities. At Carré Sainte-Anne, the 'Adventice' exhibition was a participatory project, with many local hands contributing to the artwork. This creates a powerful sense of ownership and connection for visitors who see their own or their community's contributions represented.
+1 The ephemeral nature of these installations, often displayed for a limited time, adds to their allure and encourages timely visits. The choice of Carré Sainte-Anne, a former neo-Gothic church, provides a unique and resonant backdrop for JR's work. The juxtaposition of the historical religious architecture with contemporary, human-centric art creates a thought-provoking experience. The cavernous space allows for grand installations, and the interplay of light within the church enhances the visual impact of the art.
+1A Neo-Gothic Gem Reimagined
Its transformation into a contemporary art center involved careful renovation, preserving much of the original structure while adapting it for modern exhibition needs. This creates a unique atmosphere where visitors can admire both the historical edifice and the art within. +1The church was deconsecrated and closed for renovations before reopening as a dedicated space for contemporary art. This repurposing has given the historic building a new lease on life, making it a cultural hub in Montpellier. The large, open central space is ideal for showcasing large-scale installations, allowing art to interact dynamically with the architectural features of the former nave.
+1Visitors often remark on the striking contrast between the solemnity of the church's past and the vibrant, modern art it now displays. This blend of old and new is a key part of the Carré Sainte-Anne experience, offering a visually rich environment that complements the artistic programming.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit