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Museum · Ajaccio, Córsega
Palais Fesch – Musée des Beaux-Arts
Fine arts museum created from the collection of Cardinal Fesch, Napoleon's uncle, with one of the largest collections of early Italian painting in France.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Palais Fesch – Musée des Beaux-Arts
The Palais Fesch is Ajaccio's fine arts museum, in the Borgu district. It originated from the donation of Cardinal Joseph Fesch, Napoleon's uncle and half-brother of Letizia Bonaparte, who bequeathed more than a thousand works to his hometown in his 1839 will. The palace was built between 1828 and 1852.
The collection is known for Italian painting from the 14th to the 18th centuries, one of the most important collections of its kind in France, with works by masters such as Botticelli and Titian. There is also a wing dedicated to Napoleon and his family, and a gallery of Corsican painters.
In the courtyard stands the bronze statue of Cardinal Fesch. Beside it, the imperial chapel, erected between 1857 and 1859, holds the tombs of the cardinal, Letizia Ramolino and several members of the Bonaparte family.
The museum carries the Musée de France label and organizes guided tours and family activities throughout the year.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One and a half to two hours, including the imperial chapel.
Best time
In the afternoon, when it gets hot outside, or on a rainy day. Check opening days before you go.
How to get there
It is on rue Fesch, the shopping street parallel to the port, about a five-minute walk from Place Foch and ten minutes from the Gare d'Ajaccio.
Tip
Be sure to go into the imperial chapel, where Napoleon's mother and uncle are buried. The emperor himself is buried in Paris, at the Hôtel des Invalides.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Palais Fesch – Musée des Beaux-Arts
Who was Cardinal Fesch?
Joseph Fesch was Napoleon's uncle, half-brother of Letizia Bonaparte, and a major art collector. He left part of his collection to Ajaccio, his birthplace.
Is Napoleon buried in the imperial chapel of the Palais Fesch?
No. The chapel houses Cardinal Fesch, Letizia and other family members. Napoleon is entombed at the Hôtel des Invalides in Paris.
What kind of art does the Palais Fesch hold?
Mainly Italian painting from the 14th to the 18th centuries, plus a wing dedicated to Napoleon and a gallery of Corsican painters.