Visit of the Renoir Cultural Center

Enter the intimate world of Impressionist painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir (1841-1919) and discover the story of the man behind the artist.

Nestled in the heart of the Côte des Bar vineyards in Champagne, Essoyes, the birthplace of his wife Aline Charigot, was a refuge for Pierre-Auguste Renoir for more than thirty summers, then for his descendants, right up to his great-grandchildren.

Far from the hustle and bustle of Paris, Renoir found here a soft, incomparable light and a rhythm of life conducive to creativity. He painted portraits, poetic landscapes and family scenes, notably of his three sons, who would themselves become artists: Pierre, an actor, Jean, a film-maker, and Claude, a ceramist.

Open to the public since 2017, the Maison Renoir faithfully recreates this intimate universe. Visitors can discover a living space, with the artist's studio and the house still marked by their presence and habits.

Not far from the former family estate, the communal cemetery is now home to the entirety of this exceptional family, bearing witness to a discreet but profound attachment to the village.

A true place of memory, strolling through the streets of Essoyes is like walking through a painting by the master of Impressionism, in the heart of a village that has preserved its charm of yesteryear and inspired Renoir to paint many canvases. In Essoyes, Renoir reveals himself to you in a whole new light!