Musée Chantier

The Musée-Château d'Annecy is housed in a historic fortress that served as the residence for the Counts of Geneva and the Dukes of Genevois-Nemours. Listed as a Historical Monument in 1902, the building features a distinctive blend of 13th-century medieval defensive structures, including the 30-meter-high Tour de la Reine, and 16th-century Renaissance elegance. Originally a fortress, it functioned as a residence until the 17th century and later as military barracks until 1947. The city of Annecy purchased the site from the Ministry of Defense in 1953, opening it as a museum in 1956.

Visitors can explore extensive collections showcasing regional heritage, underwater archaeology, medieval sculpture, landscape painting, contemporary art, and animation films. The museum also hosts various temporary exhibitions. It is open every day, except on January 1st, Easter Monday, the Feast of the Ascension, May 1st, May 8th, November 1st, November 11th, and December 25th.

Opening hours vary by season. Until May 31, 2026, the museum is open from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm and 2:00 pm to 5:30 pm, closed on Tuesdays. From June 1 to September 30, 2026, it operates continuously from 10:30 am to 6:00 pm, also closed on Tuesdays. Admission is free for children under 12. This site offers a comprehensive look at Annecy’s artistic and historical development, set within one of the region’s most significant architectural landmarks.