The view back toward the asylum (van Gogh’s bedroom on the upper floor)
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Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Monastery

4.5
·2k reviews·Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France

The asylum where Vincent van Gogh found inspiration and created masterpieces, now a working center for art therapy.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wednesday afternoons

Peaceful, not overcrowded

CrowdLow
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The view back toward the asylum (van Gogh’s bedroom on the upper floor)

Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Monastery

Best Time

Wednesday afternoons

Peaceful, not overcrowded

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The asylum where Vincent van Gogh found inspiration and created masterpieces, now a working center for art therapy.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"Walking around and seeing the vantage points from where he painted the masterworks you’ve seen forever was pretty special. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♂️ Allow an Hour

Allocate 45-60 minutes for your visit to fully absorb the atmosphere and history.

🖼️ Use the Guide

The provided paper guide tells a great story and enhances understanding of Van Gogh's time here.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Van Gogh's Room

Van Gogh's Room

Saint-Paul-de-Mausole

Step into the space where Van Gogh lived and painted, offering a powerful connection to his art and struggles.

Reddit
Inspiring Gardens

Inspiring Gardens

Saint-Paul-de-Mausole

Wander through the serene gardens that provided Van Gogh with peace and artistic inspiration.

Reddit
Patient Art Gallery

Patient Art Gallery

Saint-Paul-de-Mausole

See impressive artwork created by current patients, continuing Van Gogh's legacy of art therapy.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Van Gogh's Sanctuary

Visit the asylum where Vincent van Gogh found solace and created masterpieces. Understand that it's a working rehabilitation center, offering a unique, moving experience beyond a typical museum. TikTok

Timing is Key

While not overcrowded, visiting on a Wednesday afternoon offered a peaceful experience. Arriving later in the day can be rewarding, but check closing times to maximize your visit. Reddit

Best Times

When
Wednesday afternoons
Why
Peaceful, not overcrowded
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Rewarding views, check closing
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The short-version itinerary 🧺 The complete Provence travel guide on my bio. #provence #southoffrance #travelfrance #beautifuldestinations #chateau #saintremydeprovence #lesbauxdeprovence #chateaudestoublon
@sonia.c.mota
15K likes • 217.8K views

🚶‍♂️ Allow an Hour

Allocate 45-60 minutes for your visit to fully absorb the atmosphere and history. Reddit

🖼️ Use the Guide

The provided paper guide tells a great story and enhances understanding of Van Gogh's time here. Reddit

4 days in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence In the South of France 🌸✨🪻🌻 We rented a house in Eyragues about an 8 minute drive from town from @airbnb we rented our car from The Avignon train station. We ate at Maison Marshall, Maison Hache, Chateau des Alpilles and La Renaissance in Gordes. The Asylum where Vincent Van Gogh stayed is in Saint-Paul-de-Mausole. Gordes was voted the most beautiful village in Fr...
@toniscaglione
6.4K likes • 136.3K views
Discover the historic monastery in Saint-Remy where Van Gogh spent time creating masterpieces behind its doors. This hidden gem in Provence is a must-see for art lovers and travelers alike. 📍Saint-Paul de Mausole, Saint-Remy-de-Provence When will you explore this inspiring place? . . . #france_wanderlust #vangogh #saintremydeprovence #provence #provencealpescotedazur #southoffrance #francetrav...
france_wanderlust
85 likes • 1.1K views

📸 Capture the Vibe

Take plenty of pictures to remember the spaces that inspired Van Gogh's masterpieces. Reddit

➡️ Nearby Glanum

Combine your visit with a walk up to the ancient Roman site of Glanum. Reddit

Van Gogh’s asylum in Provence 🎨🇫🇷 In 1889, Vincent Van Gogh was voluntarily locked up in the Saint-Paul de Mausole psychiatric hospital 👨‍🎨 During his stay here, Van Gogh produced almost 150 paintings behind the bars of his room, including the famous painting « The Starry Night » 💫 📍Saint-Paul de Mausole monastery, Saint-Remy-de-Provence 🕰️ Open for visits from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. 🗺️ The mona...
julianontheroute
349.6K likes • 4.7M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♂️ Allow an Hour

Allocate 45-60 minutes for your visit to fully absorb the atmosphere and history. Reddit

🖼️ Use the Guide

The provided paper guide tells a great story and enhances understanding of Van Gogh's time here. Reddit

📸 Capture the Vibe

Take plenty of pictures to remember the spaces that inspired Van Gogh's masterpieces. Reddit

➡️ Nearby Glanum

Combine your visit with a walk up to the ancient Roman site of Glanum. Reddit

💖 Art Therapy Legacy

Appreciate the ongoing use of art therapy, a practice Van Gogh benefited from. TikTokReddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Monastery deeply moving and inspiring, particularly for its connection to Van Gogh's life and art. The peaceful gardens and the ongoing art therapy program are highlights, offering a unique glimpse into both history and healing. Some note that the informational materials could be improved, but the overall experience is considered powerful and worthwhile. Reddit+2

"Very interesting to see where he created some of his best and most memorable work. Impressive to walk through the house, spaces and gardens that inspired him to paint his work. The house is nicely set, giving you a good idea of the spaced he resided in. 9 euros for entry, free for kids under 12. One feedback is that they brochure/info can be improved, they just give you a printed paper as information."

Elana Podvalniuk

"MUST for van Gogh fans! A working rehabilitation house with paintings from actual patients are as impressive the copies of Van Gogh's strumming about the space. Beautiful, peaceful, and somewhat haunting."

Michael Wolfe

"Had a brilliant visit! It was very inspiring and being where Van Gogh created some of his wonderful painting was quite powerful for me. It was just nice to be able to sit in the garden and enjoy the surroundings. It was busy but not overcrowded, visited on a Wednesday in the afternoon."

isabelle strode

What People Like

Connection to Van Gogh
Peaceful gardens
Art therapy legacy

What People Dislike

Informational materials

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Saint-Paul-de-Mausole is located near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Many visitors arrive by car, as it's situated in a scenic area. Public transport options might be limited, so consider checking local bus routes or opting for a taxi or ride-share service from Saint-Rémy. TikTok

Yes, it's accessible from major towns in Provence. If you're staying in Avignon, you can rent a car or explore public transport options. TikTok

Parking is generally available near the monastery, though it can get busy during peak tourist seasons. Arriving earlier in the day can help secure a spot. Reddit

While Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a popular day trip from Nice,TikTok Saint-Paul-de-Mausole is further south in Provence. It's more feasible as part of a dedicated trip to the Saint-Rémy area. TikTok

The walk from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence to Saint-Paul-de-Mausole is approximately 30-40 minutes, offering a pleasant stroll through the Provençal countryside. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry is typically around 9 euros for adults. Children under 12 often get in for free. Reddit

Booking in advance is generally not required, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any updates or special advisories, especially during peak season. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but they are typically open until around 6:00 PM. It's crucial to verify the exact closing time on the day of your visit to ensure you have enough time. Reddit

Yes, children under 12 have free entry. The gardens and the historical aspect can be engaging for older children interested in art history. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted inside the monastery and its grounds, allowing you to capture the inspiring spaces. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The primary draw is experiencing the asylum where Vincent van Gogh stayed and created many of his iconic works, including his room and the surrounding gardens. Reddit

You can see Van Gogh's former living and working spaces, the beautiful gardens that inspired him, and an exhibition of art created by current patients. Reddit+1

It is a functioning psychiatric rehabilitation center that uses art therapy, a practice that Van Gogh benefited from. Parts of the facility are open to visitors. TikTokReddit

Most visitors spend about 45-60 minutes exploring the site and absorbing its atmosphere. Reddit

While formal guided tours might not be extensively advertised, a provided paper guide offers valuable information and tells the story of Van Gogh's time there. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The gardens offer beautiful light and scenery, and the views from Van Gogh's former room provide a unique perspective. Capturing the architectural details of the monastery is also rewarding. Reddit

Photography policies for patient artwork can vary. It's best to check for any signage or ask staff on-site to ensure you are respecting privacy and guidelines. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and functioning institutions for privacy and safety reasons. It's advisable to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. TikTok

A versatile camera that handles both indoor and outdoor lighting well is ideal. A smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate for capturing the essence of the place. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed in Van Gogh's room to help visitors connect with his experience. However, always be mindful of others and avoid flash photography if it's disruptive. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Saint-Paul-de-Mausole is a moving historical site, it might be more suited for older children or those with a specific interest in art history. The entry fee is 9 euros for adults, with free admission for children under 12. Reddit The peaceful gardens offer space to wander, and the story of Van Gogh can be an engaging way to introduce children to art and the challenges of mental health. Consider bringing a sketchbook for them to draw inspiration from the surroundings. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, Saint-Paul-de-Mausole is an absolute must-visit. Standing in the very rooms and gardens where Van Gogh created masterpieces like 'The Starry Night' is an unparalleled experience. Reddit Take your time to absorb the atmosphere, and don't miss the exhibition of art by current patients, which offers a contemporary perspective on art therapy. TikTokReddit

🧘‍♀️ Those Seeking Peace

If you're looking for a tranquil and reflective experience, the serene gardens and the quiet dignity of Saint-Paul-de-Mausole offer a peaceful escape. Reddit The monastery's history, intertwined with Van Gogh's search for solace, creates a contemplative ambiance. It's a place to connect with nature, art, and a sense of calm. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Van Gogh's Time at Saint-Paul-de-Mausole

In May 1889, Vincent van Gogh voluntarily admitted himself to the asylum of Saint-Paul-de-Mausole near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. He sought refuge from his mental health struggles, finding a degree of peace and a prolific artistic output during his year-long stay. The serene environment, the vibrant Provençal landscapes, and the asylum's gardens became the subjects of some of his most celebrated works. TikTokReddit

During his time here, Van Gogh painted over 150 works, including iconic pieces like 'The Starry Night,' 'Irises,' and numerous self-portraits. The monastery provided him with a studio space and access to the grounds, allowing him to translate his inner world onto canvas. Visitors can still see the vantage points from which he painted these masterpieces, offering a profound connection to his artistic journey. Reddit

It's important to remember that Saint-Paul-de-Mausole is not just a historical site but also a functioning psychiatric hospital. The institution continues to offer art therapy to its patients, a practice that Van Gogh himself found beneficial. This dual nature makes a visit particularly poignant, highlighting both the artist's struggles and the enduring power of art in healing. TikTokReddit

The Legacy of Art Therapy

Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Monastery holds a significant place in the history of art therapy. It was here that Vincent van Gogh, during his voluntary stay, found solace and a means of expression through his art. The asylum recognized the therapeutic potential of creative engagement, providing Van Gogh with the space and encouragement to paint prolifically. TikTok

This tradition continues to this day. The monastery remains a working rehabilitation center, utilizing art therapy as a core component of its treatment programs. Visitors can witness this legacy firsthand by viewing the impressive artwork created by current patients, which often reflects a similar emotional depth and artistic skill seen in Van Gogh's work. Reddit+1

The integration of art into mental health treatment at Saint-Paul-de-Mausole serves as a powerful reminder of art's ability to heal, communicate, and foster well-being. It offers a unique perspective on the asylum's mission, extending beyond its historical connection to Van Gogh to its ongoing contribution to mental health care. Reddit

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