Norman Foster won the international architectural competition to design the building in 1984.
The museum's glass atrium was engineered to reflect the columns of the neighboring 1st-century Roman temple.
The building construction utilized a mix of steel, glass, and concrete to contrast with the limestone of the adjacent ancient temple.
The underground levels extend several stories below the square to protect the fragile subterranean archaeological remains of Nîmes.
The institution holds over 400 contemporary artworks including pieces by Gerhard Richter and Sigmar Polke.
The Carré d'Art is a contemporary art museum and municipal library designed by British architect Norman Foster. The building is renowned for its deliberate architectural dialogue with the ancient Roman Maison Carrée temple located directly across the square. Its structure features a transparent, glass-fronted facade and an open atrium that allows natural light to permeate the exhibition levels. The permanent collection focuses on art movements from the 1960s to the present, emphasizing the 'Nouveaux Réalistes' and supports for abstract art. The site serves as both a cultural institution and a central public library for the city of Nîmes. The basement levels house a significant portion of the art collection, while upper levels provide research access and gallery viewing. It remains a primary destination for viewing mid-20th-century French and international avant-garde works.
From the museum's upper-level terrace looking across to the Maison Carrée temple.
Visit the rooftop terrace for a unique perspective of the Maison Carrée and the city rooftops.
Combine your visit with a walk around the adjacent Roman temple to compare the architectural styles.
Check the rotating temporary exhibition calendar before visiting, as these often occupy the largest gallery spaces.
Do not assume the building is only an art museum; expect to encounter local students and readers in the library areas.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain a quiet volume inside the library sections; photography for non-commercial purposes is generally permitted in the galleries.
