Dive into the memories of Renoir in Essoyes en Champagne

Welcome to Essoyes, a small village nestled in the heart of the Champagne region, for a journey into the Renoir past. From the Renoir cultural center to the family home, via the painter's garden and studio, enter the intimate world of a passionate and inspired man. Tours are available in the morning at 10 a.m. or in the afternoon at 2.30 p.m.

It was love at first sight between Essoyes and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, known as Auguste Renoir. It was in 1885 that he discovered this village in the Aube region, before acquiring the family home a few years later (which today holds the Maison des Illustres label). And it was here that,accompanied by his wife and three sons, he spent his summer vacations for 30 years, entertaining many of his friends.

The Renoir Cultural Center features a permanent exhibition on the life of the famous painter. Housed in the former stables of Château Hériot, this space also features an audiovisual show and a temporary exhibition room showcasing contemporary artists. There's also a store selling books on Renoir's works and life, as well as souvenirs.

At the Maison des Renoir, you'll meet Auguste Renoir as a husband and father, as well as Aline Victorine Charigot and their three children. Finally, the painter's garden and studio will immerse you in his artistic world.

Available from February to April and in November, this 2-hour guided tour also takes you beyond the Renoir estate. As you wander through the picturesque village streets, you'll understand why the artist fell under the spell...