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Volti Museum, Villefranche-sur-Mer

Impressive bronze, terracotta and copper sculptures

featured in Sights & sites

The sculptor, Antoniucci Volti, was born in Italy in 1915 but his family lived in Villefranche-sur-Mer. His collection is housed in the town's 16th-century citadel.

The saint Elme citadel is a massive stone fortress built on the orders of Emmanuel-Philibert of Savoy in 1557 to defend the city and protect the harbour.

Nestling in the base of the Citadel blockhouses, an entire population of bronze, copper and terracotta female creatures featuring voluptuous curves is displayed in a rough stone showcase. Volti began his career as a sculptor in the 1940s after studying in Paris and completing military service.

This museum dedicated to his impressive sculptures was opened in 1981.

Visitor comments

  • "If you arrive by cruise ship this is one of the first things you'll see when you land in Villefranche. The museums are all free and a great way to get out of the sun for a while. Although you'll want to take some photos of the fabulous views. I we really liked the Foundation Musee Volti statutes and this takes you into some great rooms in the Citadelle. The Citadelle building is a fascinating structure, built in 1554 so quite a lot of history to explore" - Trip Advisor
  • "This citadelle is a mix of museums, offices and the city hall! The museum featuring the sculptures of Volti is amazing and well worth the visit." - Trip Advisor
  • "We saw a lovely sculpture display by Volti. The placement of the sculpture around the citadelle was beautifully done. The garden and views where worth seeing as well." - Trip Advisor

When to come

The museum is open during the summer season (1st June to 10th September) Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 12:00 and from 15:00 to 18:30, as well as Sundays 15:00-18:30. The rest of the year, from 10:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 17:30, Sundays 14:00 to 17:30. Closed in November.

How to get passes

Entrance is free.

Location

Map of the surrounding area