🏛️ Palais Rohan: A Journey Through Time and Art in Strasbourg

Nestled beside the majestic Strasbourg Cathedral, the Palais Rohan stands as a testament to the city's rich tapestry of history and art. Commissioned in the 18th century by Cardinal Armand-Gaston de Rohan-Soubise, this architectural masterpiece was designed by Robert de Cotte, the principal architect to King Louis XV. Its Baroque elegance has since witnessed the footsteps of royalty, including Louis XV, Marie Antoinette, and Napoleon Bonaparte. Today, the palace houses three exceptional museums: Musée des Beaux-Arts: Located on the upper floors, this museum offers a panoramic view of European painting from the Middle Ages to the 19th century, featuring works by masters like Botticelli, Raphael, and Rubens. Musée Archéologique: Situated in the basement, it delves into Alsace's ancient past, showcasing artifacts from prehistoric times through the Merovingian period. Musée des Arts Décoratifs: On the ground floor, visitors can explore the opulent apartments of the Rohan cardinals, adorned with intricate stuccoes, tapestries, and period furnishings, alongside collections of Strasbourg porcelain and goldsmithery. Walking through the palace, I was transported across centuries. The grandeur of the Synod Hall, the delicate artistry in the decorative arts museum, and the profound sense of history in the archaeological exhibits made for an unforgettable experience. A heartfelt thank you to Trip.com for facilitating this enriching journey through Strasbourg's cultural heart.