The Matisse and Chagall museums, two worlds to discover in Cimiez
- Jean-Christophe DIMINO
- Jun 3
- 3 min read
The work of the two artists is highlighted in two separate museums
Located on Nice's Cimiez Hill—one at the lower end of the boulevard and the other at the very top—the Matisse and Chagall Museums offer a unique immersion into the world of two major figures of modern art. Nestled in a neighborhood steeped in history, these institutions offer a glimpse into the artistic evolution of Henri Matisse and the colorful spirituality of Marc Chagall.
Matisse Museum: In the artist's private life
A historic setting: the Villa des Arènes
The Matisse Museum is housed in the Villa des Arènes, a Genoese-style residence built between 1670 and 1685 by Jean-Baptiste Gubernatis, Consul of Nice. Purchased by the City of Nice in 1950 to preserve this heritage, the villa became the Henri Matisse Museum in 1963, due to its proximity to the Régina, the artist's last residence in Nice.
An exceptional collection
The museum houses one of the world's most important collections of Matisse's works, spanning all periods of his artistic production. It includes 68 paintings and gouache cutouts, 236 drawings, 218 prints, 57 sculptures, as well as personal objects and documents. Among the masterpieces on display are Blue Nude IV (1952), Creole Dancer (1950), and Flowers and Fruits (1952–1953).
Marc Chagall Museum: an ode to spirituality
A modern building approved by the artist during his lifetime
Opened in 1973, the Marc Chagall Museum is one of the few museums designed during the artist's lifetime, with his active participation. Located on land donated by the City of Nice, the building was designed by architect André Hermant, in close collaboration with Chagall, who also oversaw the creation of the Mediterranean garden.
The Biblical Message and Beyond
The heart of the museum is the Biblical Message cycle, a collection of seventeen paintings depicting episodes from Genesis, Exodus, and the Song of Songs. These works, donated to the French state by Chagall, are accompanied by numerous sketches, gouaches, engravings, and sculptures. The museum also houses major works such as King David (1951), Noah's Ark (1961–1966), and the triptych Resistance, Resurrection, Liberation .
A joint visit to the Matisse and Chagall Museums in Nice offers an enriching artistic experience, highlighting two distinct yet complementary visions of 20th-century art. Their geographical proximity and the richness of their collections make them a must-see for any art lover.
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I support you with a perfect knowledge of the local market and a tailor-made valuation of your property, taking into account its exceptional historical environment . 🔎 Ask for a confidential estimate or let's meet to discuss your real estate project in the most Roman of Nice districts.
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Cimiez, a living heritage on the real estate market
Investing or living in Cimiez means choosing a district steeped in history, culture and refinement , while enjoying the peace and quiet, unobstructed views and a green environment.
Key figures in 2025
Average price per m² for old properties: between €5,200 and €7,500/m² , depending on the address, floor, view and interior features
Apartments with sea or park view : +15 to 20% on average
Strong demand for properties with character (parquet floors, moldings, fireplaces) and properties with terraces in luxury residences
In an often standardized real estate world, the Cimiez district offers a rare heritage and emotional value . Buying here means choosing a lifestyle steeped in history, while benefiting from the advantages of a high-end residential area, close to the city center and amenities.
Would you like to know more? Contact me directly, Jean-Christophe DIMINO, at 06 16 95 70 83 or by email.
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