Musee d'Art et d'Histoire Baron-Gerard (Museum of Art and History Baron-Gerard), Bayeux

Designated as a Museum of France, the Baron-Gérard Museum of Art and History (MAHB) is an integral part of the Bayeux Museum triptych, alongside the iconic Bayeux Tapestry (UNESCO Memory of the World) and the poignant memorial museum dedicated to the Battle of Normandy.

Originally inaugurated in 1900, the museum found its abode in the former episcopal palace, a structure steeped in history dating from the 11th to the 16th century and adjacent to the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Since 1951, the museum has borne the name of Henri Alexandre Gérard, a prominent figure in Bayeux's history and a devoted patron of the arts.

The museum underwent a significant rejuvenation, reopening its doors in March 2013. Today, it houses a diverse and extensive collection, comprising 800 archaeological and ethnographic pieces, 600 works of art, and more than 2,500 porcelain and lace creations. The artistic treasures span a wide range, featuring masterpieces by renowned artists such as Philippe de Champaigne, François Boucher, Gustave Caillebotte, and Kees Van Dongen. The museum unfolds its narrative in 14 carefully curated stages, guiding visitors through the evolution of artistic expression in Europe from Prehistory to the 20th century.

Protected as Historic Monuments, the museum's setting, the bishops' palace, stands as one of the region's most remarkable urban residences. The architecture, steeped in centuries of history, complements the curated collections, creating an ambiance that transports visitors across time and space.