Musée Bibliothèque Carpentras: A cultural treasure near Crillon Le Brave

Nestled in the heart of Provence, the town of Carpentras boasts a true cultural treasure from the 18th century: the Musée Bibliothèque Inguimbertine. This unique institution, considered to be France’s first library-museum, recently reopened its doors in the Hôtel-Dieu of Carpentras after extensive renovation work. Located just a few minutes from our 5-star hotel in Crillon le Brave, this must-see site is definitely worth a visit during your stay in the region.

Reopening of the Carpentras Library Museum

Malachie d’Inguimbert, native and bishop of Carpentras, created a library-museum on his return from Rome. This unique space combined books and fine art, an innovative Italian concept for its time in France.

In 1746, Inguimbert bequeathed the library to the people of Carpentras, making it one of the very first public libraries in the country. In 2002, the Hôtel-Dieu de Carpentras, constructed by Inguimbert in 1750, ceased operating as a hospital. The town purchased the building and decided to relocate the valuable Inguimbertine library there, providing it with a new home befitting its historical and cultural significance.

After several years of closure for renovation, Jean-Yves Baudrouy, director of the Musée Bibliothèque Inguimbertine, has reopened the doors of this local heritage monument. Visitors can now rediscover this emblematic place, which houses a rich collection of old books, precious manuscripts and art objects testifying to the history and culture of Provence.

Renovations and new exhibitions at the Carpentras library museum

Renovation work has enhanced the building’s remarkable 18th-century architecture, while modernizing the exhibition spaces. New rooms have been fitted out, offering more space to display the treasures of the collection.

Not-to-be-missed new exhibits and collections include a selection of exceptionally beautiful, illuminated manuscripts, as well as a presentation of the library’s rarest and most precious works. Art lovers will also be delighted to discover a collection of Provençal paintings and sculptures, bearing witness to the region’s rich cultural history. However, this space also makes new technologies available to the general public, with the introduction of digital books (online), a multimedia media library, music albums, a computer area and video games.

Practical information for visiting the Carpentras library museum from the Crillon le Brave hotel

To make the most of your visit to the Musée Bibliothèque Inguimbertine, here is some practical information you need to know:

Opening hours Carpentras library

Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm. Last admission at 5.30pm.

Carpentras library price list

Full price: €8

Reduced rate (students, groups, disabled, culture pass…): €5

Free for children under 12

From our Crillon le Brave hotel, just 20 minutes away by car, you can easily travel to Carpentras to discover this exceptional site. Don’t hesitate to ask our team for advice on how best to organize your visit.

Other activities in and around Carpentras

After exploring the riches of the Musée Bibliothèque Inguimbertine, take advantage of your stay to discover other wonders of the region. Carpentras is brimming with architectural treasures, such as the Cathédrale Saint-Siffrein and the Porte d’Orange, testimony to its rich historical past.

The Dentelles de Montmirail, located in the Vaucluse region to the west of Mont Ventoux, are a natural gem that fascinates visitors from all over the world. The Dentelles de Montmirail massif is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the Vaucluse. Easily accessible but nevertheless technical, numerous trails offer grandiose views of these spectacular rock formations. This unique mountain range is distinguished by its sharp ridges, which appear to have been delicately sculpted by the hands of nature. These rock formations offer a harmonious blend of grandiose scenery, history and exciting outdoor activities.

For the more athletic, the ascent of Mont Ventoux is just waiting for you. Overlooking Provence at an altitude of 1912 metres, the summit of Mont Ventoux offers breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Luberon, its lush greenery and brilliant blue skies. A reward worthy of the effort required to climb it by bike. Despite the challenges, climbing Mont Ventoux offers breathtaking scenery. As you progress, you pass through fragrant pine forests, lunar landscapes of white rock and, finally, a 360-degree panoramic view from the summit. On a clear day, you can see the Alps, the Mediterranean and the surrounding valleys, rewarding your efforts.

You can also stroll through the town’s picturesque alleyways, browse the Provencal markets or sample the local culinary specialties in one of the many typical restaurants.

Discover the charm of the region from the Crillon le Brave hotel

After your cultural escapades and gourmet discoveries, return to the calm and serenity of our 5-star hotel in Crillon le Brave. Nestled in the heart of an authentic Provencal village, our establishment offers an idyllic setting to recharge your batteries and take full advantage of the region’s charms.

Whether you opt for a room overlooking the vineyards or a suite with a view of Mont Ventoux, you’ll be seduced by the warm atmosphere and attentive service for which our hotel is renowned. Indulge in a relaxing massage at the Tata Harper spa, or savor the delights of our La Table du Ventoux restaurant, featuring seasonal local produce.

Your stay at Crillon le Brave will be the ideal opportunity to combine relaxation, cultural discoveries and gourmet pleasures, in the heart of authentic Provence.

Hôtel Crillon Le Brave and the Spa des Écuries opened their doors on 29 March 2024. For more information or to book your stay, visit our website or contact our reservations team at reservations@crillonlebrave.com or by telephone on +33 (0) 4 90 65 61 61.