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Grand Curtius, 7,000 years of art and history along the Meuse

The Grand Curtius is one of those places where the weight and richness of time can immediately be felt. Located along the banks of the Meuse, in the historic heart of Liège, this vast museum complex brings together 7,000 years of art and history within an exceptional architectural setting. From the moment you arrive, the red bricks, Meuse stone and mascarons of the Curtius Palace, listed as Exceptional Heritage of Wallonia, create an elegant and welcoming presence. Here, the history of Liège is told as much through the buildings as through the works they house.

The visit unfolds like a generous journey through time, where each gallery opens a new door to the past.

An architectural ensemble that already tells a story

The Grand Curtius is not limited to a single building. It brings together several emblematic structures—palaces and townhouses—that reflect Liège architecture from the 16th to the 18th centuries. The route takes visitors through the Curtius Palace, the Curtius Residence, the Hôtel de Brahy, the Hôtel Hayme de Bomal and the Hôtel de Wilde, forming a coherent and harmonious whole.

This architectural diversity enhances the pleasure of the visit. Moving from one space to another, visitors become aware of the volumes, materials and light, with the impression of wandering through a district entirely devoted to history.

Collections of exceptional richness

Across more than 5,000 m², the Grand Curtius brings together five major collections that interact with one another. The archaeological section traces human development from the Prehistory to the end of the Carolingian period, offering a clear and progressive understanding of the region’s origins.

The arms department impresses with the scale and diversity of its pieces: firearms, bladed weapons, armour and protective equipment originating both from the great Liège production centre and from other parts of the world. It provides a fascinating insight into military and technical history.

The decorative arts collection reveals remarkable refinement: tableware, clocks, sculptures and objects in marble, ivory, alabaster, terracotta, stone or metal, created by renowned artists. Each piece reflects a particular craftsmanship, aesthetic and historical period.

The religious art and Mosan art department gathers major works from the diocesan heritage, carefully preserved and illustrating the spiritual and artistic depth of the region.

The glass collection, composed of several thousand pieces tracing the history of this material from Antiquity to the present day, forms an integral part of the museum’s identity, although it is currently inaccessible.

A continuous immersion from Prehistory to the modern era

What stands out at the Grand Curtius is its remarkable continuity. Few museums offer such a wide chronological span, combining artistic, craft and industrial practices. The objects on display embody artistic and technical expertise closely linked to the history of Liège, its principality and, more broadly, the region.

The visit inspires curiosity, admiration and sometimes surprise. It reveals the important role Liège has played in European history, through works that reflect the creativity and influence of the city.

A museum to experience at the rhythm of the city

The Grand Curtius is best discovered without haste. Its location, just steps from the centre of Liège, makes it an ideal stop during a walk along the Meuse. Visitors often arrive planning to stay for an hour and remain much longer, drawn in by collections that invite both contemplation and understanding.

Opening times

Every day (except Tuesdays) from 10.00 to 18.00 • Closed on 1/01, 1/05, 1/11, 11/11, 25/12

Price

adults €9 • 60+ €5 • Article 27: €1.25 • < 26 years: free of charge • Free on first Sunday of the month

Group

Price €5 pp. (min. 10 people - max. 20 people). Supplement for guide.

Guided tour EN, FR, NL, DE - subject to prior booking: +32 4 221 93 03 or info@visitezliege.be

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