Frustrated culture vultures need not wait for their next trip to France to visit some of the nation’s top exhibitions. Free and immersive, here are virtual visits to five exhibitions, monuments and national treasures of France that promise a journey through the ages.
1. Versailles in its glory
Prepare for a total immersion into the era of the Sun King through 16 chronological stories illustrated by digital paintings. Choose between “Science at Versailles,” “Fashion at Versailles” or “Marie-Antoinette: Mother and Queen” to see Versailles in its glory days. And if you’re seeking a bit of fresh air, slip out from the exhibitions into the celebrated gardes, captured thanks to Google Maps. Take the chance to explore this amazing palace, just outside of Paris. Click HERE.
2. Underground journey in the Lascaux Caves
While comfy and cozy at home, you can still plunge to the depths of the Lascaux Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled deep below the Dordogne Valley. The caves, discovered in 1940, have become an important element in the study of prehistoric art. While it’s incredible to see while in Dordogne in person, the digital archeological site is an incredible timeline to understand the history of this treasure. Click HERE
3. Night at the Musée d’Orsay
Come along and explore this fantastic Parisian landmark, originally created for the 1900 Exposition Universelle. Google Arts & Culture has created a exhibition entitled “From Station to the Renovated Musée d’Orsay,” featuring many digital paintings from Van Gogh to Cézanne. Discover the works by artistic movement (Impressionism, Postimpressionism, etc.) along a timeline and click on the ones you’d like to learn more about! Get some inspiration for your next visit to the museum. Click HERE.
4. Impressionist Planet in Normandy
Immediate takeoff for the Impressionist Galaxy! Get your head in the clouds for the Musées des Impressionnismes in Giverny, and explore this exhibition featuring works from over 70 artists of the Impressionist movement. If every canvas creates its own planet, these works together combine to form a solar system detailing the movements that are linked to Impressionism, from “Italian Light” to “Netherlands and Belgium” or “Spanish Revival.” Jet off with us to Normandy! Click HERE.
5. Fashion and lace in Northern France
The Museum of Fashion and Lace of Calais can be discovered online through Google Arts and Culture over four stories. To discover the cultural heritage of the city, begin with the story “Lace, a European fabric art” then head over to the Balenciaga portion “The Lace Magician.” Take in the wonder of the dresses, masters and fabrics on display in the museum and soak up the secrets of this classic French product. Click HERE.
