Augustine Convent, Toulouse

The Augustinian Convent, located in the heart of Toulouse, and fronting on Metz Street (Rue de Metz), has a rich history dating back to its foundation in 1269. Originally established for a community of Hermits of Saint Augustine outside the city walls, the convent relocated to its current central location in 1310 after receiving permission from Pope Clement V. This "new" site saw the construction of the convent throughout the 14th century, culminating in the completion of the cloister in 1396.

Despite suffering significant damage during the great fire of Toulouse in May 1463, which necessitated four decades of reconstruction, the convent was rededicated in 1504 and remained a flourishing religious community until its gradual decline over the next few centuries. In November 1789, following the French Revolution, the convent was nationalized, and by August 1795, it was repurposed as the Toulouse Museum of Art.

Today, the convent's architecture is a prominent example of medieval design, featuring a block-size brick building complex. Visitors enter through Rue de Metz, where a small reception area leads to the impressive cloister. This cloister, complete with long rows of double-column pillars, houses a garden and is surrounded by Romanesque galleries, maintaining much of its original splendor.

The museum's collections are housed primarily on the ground floor, with Romanesque and Gothic sculptures from the 12th, 14th, and 15th centuries, as well as period religious paintings. Notable features include ancient gargoyles from the Cordelier's monastery, displayed along the southern section of the cloister, giving visitors a rare close-up view. The central room of the eastern gallery is particularly striking, with tall slender columns and beautifully arched ceilings.

The museum offers a comprehensive display of fine arts in its galleries, enhancing Toulouse's cultural landscape and preserving its historical heritage within the walls of the former Augustinian Convent.