Musée Ariana (Ariana Museum), Geneva

The Ariana Museum (Musée Ariana), also referred to as the Swiss Museum of Ceramics and Glass, is a cultural institution located in Geneva. Its primary focus is the exhibition of ceramic and glass artworks, boasting a remarkable collection of approximately 20,000 items spanning a historical period of 1,200 years. This collection effectively captures the diverse aspects of glass and ceramic production in terms of historical evolution, geographical origins, artistic expressions, and technological advancements. It is noteworthy that this museum stands as the sole institution of its kind in Switzerland.

Constructed between 1877 and 1884, the architectural design of the museum seamlessly incorporates elements of Neo-Classical and Neo-Baroque styles. It is prominently positioned on Avenue de la Paix, in close proximity to the Palace of Nations. The museum was originally established to house the private art collection of the Swiss art enthusiast and patron, Gustave Revilliod. He named the museum in honor of his mother, Ariane de la Rive, and eventually bequeathed it to the city of Geneva.

In 1934, the museum became a member of the association of art and history museums in Geneva, known as Les Musées d'Art et d'Histoire Geneve. Subsequently, certain portions of the collection were relocated to other museums, while the Ariana Museum expanded its holdings by acquiring new exhibits, with a specific emphasis on glass and ceramics. After a period of extensive renovations lasting 12 years, the museum was reopened to the public in 1993.