The museum holds a permanent collection dedicated to the woven adaptations of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth illustrations.
Aubusson tapestries were traditionally produced without a loom's shed, allowing weavers to see the reverse side of the work as they create it.
The facility includes a 'Contemporary Creation' space specifically built to support the residency of international textile artists.
It preserves an archive of over 10,000 preparatory drawings known as 'cartoons' used by workshops since the 17th century.
The museum architecture incorporates a signature undulating roof line meant to mimic the movement of woven fabric.
The Cité internationale de la tapisserie in Aubusson serves as the premier global center for the art of weaving and textile arts. The institution is housed in a repurposed former vocational school, significantly expanded to accommodate massive contemporary tapestries. Its collection features over 450 textile works, including historic pieces dating back to the 17th century and large-scale modern installations. The museum is renowned for its UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status, which recognizes the specific weaving techniques developed in Aubusson. The main exhibition space includes the 'Nave of Tapestries,' designed to hang works up to 6 meters high. The museum also functions as a center for textile research, housing a vast library of cartoons and design documents. Visitors can observe live weaving demonstrations in the workshops located on the premises.
The main exhibition nave, where the monumental, vertically hung tapestries provide a dramatic scale for photography.
Combine your visit with a walking tour of the town to see the smaller, private galleries that still practice traditional weaving.
Ask at the front desk about the schedule for 'master weaver' demonstrations to ensure you see the looms in active use.
Visit the resource center if you are interested in the technical history of dye production and wool processing.
Do not rush through the lower-level historical galleries, as they provide essential context for understanding the contemporary works on the upper floors.
Closed on Tuesdays.
