Palais Rohan

The Palais Rohan in Strasbourg is considered a masterpiece of local Baroque architecture and has housed three major museums since the late 19th century. The building was constructed between 1731 and 1742 by Joseph Massol, based on designs by Robert de Cotte, to replace the earlier bishop's residence. It served as the city residence of the prince-bishops of the Rohan family and over the years hosted historical figures such as Louis XV, Marie Antoinette, and Napoleon. After a period as a university seat, the palace became the center of the city's art collections, which were rebuilt after their destruction in the Franco-Prussian War. Today, you can admire the magnificent architecture, with its stately facade facing the Ill River and its curved courtyard gate. Inside, you can tour the faithfully preserved apartments, which are divided into formal state rooms and private living quarters. Especially impressive are the grand dining hall and the library, which stretch along the entire length of the building. The various floors also house the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Decorative Arts, and the Museum of Fine Arts.