The Musée du Quai Branly, not far from the Eiffel Tower in Paris (map), opened in 2006, describing itself as Where cultures meet in dialogue.

Focusing on art and artifacts from Oceania, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, the Quai Branly provides stunning displays of diverse and high quality objects from around the world.

Visitors enter from either Quai Branly or Rue de l'Université, passing through large gardens to the ticket office. Once inside, you access the collections via a long winding ramp that sets the mood for the visit.

Starting in Oceania, beautifully carved masks, statues, and shields, some very large, portray a variety of cultures ranging from Melanesia to Polynesia to Australia. Music and video offerings complement the displays.

Moving on to Asia, there are numerous examples of weaving, embroidery, jewelry, sculpture, and musical instruments. "Music box" rooms with videos of music and dance performances make it a multi-media experience.

The African exhibits also focus on sculpture and music, while the Americas section includes artifacts ranging from Alaskan masks to South American carvings and costumes.

The Quai Branly's collection of musical instruments—over 8,000, including 750 Pre-Columbian instruments—is highlighted throughout the visit.

The overall collection is of extremely high quality and beautifully displayed, with soft lighting and musical accompaniment. Although detailed descriptions are in French, there are sufficient English and Spanish translations.

Located in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower, the Quai Branly is a distinctive building. Its "living wall," of plants on one of the exterior walls is striking, as are the architecture, shapes, and colors of the buildings.

There are two restaurants, the Café Branly in the garden and the more formal Les Ombres, on the terrace, with views of the Eiffel Tower and the Seine.

Métro: Iéna, Alma-Marceau, Bir Hakeim, École Militaire
Bus: 42, 63, 69, 72, 80, 82, 92
RER: Pont de l'Alma

Paris Museum Pass accepted. Closed Monday. Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings.

Musée du Quai Branly
222 Rue de l'Université (map)
Paris 75007
Tel +33 1 56 61 70 00

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