

- Discover
- The historic districs
- Musée du Hiéron
Musée du Hiéron
and its outstanding Chaumet National Treasure

Behind a monumental façade of classical appearance, the Hieron museum hides an astonishing eclectic architecture with a framework in metal and glass inspired by Gustave Eiffel. It has recently been extensively renovated by the town of Paray-le-Monial, which has given new life to the building and its collections.
Between ancient and contemporary art
The exceptional National Treasure Via Vitae (Life way, 1894-1904), a monumental (3m high) and precious work of the goldsmith-jeweller Joseph Chaumet from Paris. It is the main piece of the museum's collection. This work is the subject of the exhibition in 2014 " Divine Jewelleries - The artwork of Joseph Chaumet (1852-1928) "
- The very well preserved Romanesque portal of the 12th century is presented.
Contemporary art in the museum
The museum leads a rich strategy of exhibitions and acquisitions to contemporary artists in order to guarantee its purpose of preservation and memory for the next generations, for example, the rescue of " Sign " of Thomas Gleb, created in 1979 for the Niort Carmel, then exhibited in 2012 in the museum.
The contemporary art collection started after the opening has presented a large variety of supports : painting, sculpture, performance, art objects, pictures, video.
The birth of the museum
Classified as a "Musée de France" (museum of France), the Hieron museum is one of the oldest sacred art museum in France. His atypical name, "Hieron", comes from the greek "Hieros" meaning sacred. It opened its doors in 1893 with a collection focused on the Eucharist. His founder was the jesuit Victor Drevon (1820-1880) and
Alexis de Sarachaga (1840-1918) a rich diplomat who dedicated his wealth to this museum to buy an international art works collection.
Useful informations
Opening times : From March 20th to the 1st Sunday of January : from Tuesday to Sunday 10:30-12:30 and 2pm to 6pm. July and August : everyday, same opening hours.
Rates : 4€, 3€ reduced rate, free under 18. Special offer for family and young public : 4€ for the whole family with different booklet offered to children depending on their age.
During all year, groups and schools are welcomed on reservation.
Location and contact

Musée du Hiéron
13 rue de la Paix
71600 PARAY-LE-MONIAL