Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The Grimaldi Castle of Antibes finds its origins on the acropolis of the Greek city of Antipolis, with Roman foundations dating from the 1st century AD. The preserved remains include Roman facades 3 to 5 meters high. The square tower, 25 meters high, was erected at the end of the 11th century with stones reused from ancient monuments. Its Romanesque architecture, like the raised door accessible by a ladder, reflects medieval defensive techniques.

In the 15th century, the castle was rebuilt and occupied by a branch of the Grimaldi, the Genoese family, until 1608, when Henry IV joined the royal estate. The building then became the residence of governors, city hall, and then barracks until 1924. Repurchased by the city of Antibes in 1925, it was transformed into a Grimaldi museum, before welcoming Pablo Picasso in 1946. The latter created major works, including 78 ceramics, and bequeathed part of them to the castle.

In 1966, Grimaldi Castle officially became the Picasso Museum, now home to 245 works by the artist, as well as works by Nicolas de Staël, Fernand Léger or Joan Miró. Ranked a historic monument since 1928, he underwent a major renovation between 2006 and 2008 under the direction of Pierre-Antoine Gatier, chief architect of the Historic Monuments. Its history thus links medieval heritage and contemporary artistic influence.

The museum also preserves works by modern artists such as Germaine Richier or Hans Hartung, demonstrating its role in the 20th century artistic scene. The creation of Jacqueline Picasso in 1990 further enriched his collections, consolidating his international reputation. The castle now embodies a dialogue between ancient history, medieval architecture and artistic avant-garde.

Future

In 1946 Pablo Picasso was given the opportunity, by Dor de la Souchère, to install his workshop at the castle. In 1957 Picasso officially received the title of "Citizen of Honour of the City of Antibes".

There are about 245 works by the artist but also paintings by Nicolas de Staël, Fernand Léger or Hans Hartung, engravings by Paul Leuquet and sculptures by Germaine Richier and Joan Miró.

External links