Musée Rodin in Paris

Discover the enchanting Musée Rodin in Paris, home to iconic masterpieces like The Thinker and The Burghers of Calais. Wander through tranquil sculpture gardens and the former Hôtel Biron to experience the emotional depth and fascinating history of France’s celebrated founder of modern sculpture.

Stepping Into the Mind of a Master

As a lifelong fan of French sculptor Auguste Rodin (1840–1917), exploring the Musée Rodin was a dream come true. The museum is famously split across two stunning locations: his former estate outside of Paris, and the beautiful Hôtel Biron in central Paris.

I started my adventure at the central Paris location, which served as Rodin’s studio and home for many years. Amazingly, he donated his entire collection and estate to the city of Paris under the condition that it be preserved as a museum in his honor]

Coming Face-to-Face with The Thinker

One of the most thrilling moments of my visit was seeing Rodin’s masterpiece, The Thinker, displayed outdoors. After passing the entry gates, you’ll spot it right in the front garden, with the stunning dome of Napoleon’s Tomb visible in the background.

Seeing such a large, iconic bronze—created around 1904—out in the open air is a vastly different experience than seeing it indoors. You can walk around it freely, watch the light change across its heavily textured surface, and truly appreciate its immense scale. Naturally, I couldn’t resist striking a pose next to it!

The Burghers of Calais and Freedom from Oppression

When you stroll through the building and step into the gardens at the back, you are immediately greeted by another of his legendary works: Les Bourgeois de Calais (The Burghers of Calais).

This powerful sculpture commemorates a moving historical event from the Hundred Years’ War in 1347. Facing eleven months of English occupation, six prominent citizens of Calais offered their lives to King Edward III in exchange for sparing their city. The Queen ultimately intervened and saved them, making the statue a profound symbol of freedom from oppression.

There were twelve original castings of this monument distributed globally. If you can’t make it to Paris, you can still view this incredible piece in the U.S. at the:

• Smithsonian Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden in Washington, DC
• Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena, California
• Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City

A Tranquil City Escape

Continuing to the back of the property, you will discover a secondary garden complete with a beautiful fountain and additional sculptures. The grounds of the Hôtel Biron are an absolute must-visit if you are looking for a lovely, peaceful oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of Paris!

Have you ever seen any of Rodin’s works in person? Let me know in the comments below!