Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec

Located in Québec City, a world heritage city, the MNBAQ has four pavilions: the Pierre Lassonde pavilion, devoted to contemporary art, the Charles Baillairgé pavilion (temporarily closed), devoted to modern art, the Gérard Morisset pavilion, the temple of historical art, and the central pavilion, home to the Family Gallery. Proud of its reference collection of Québec art, the Musée abundant collection of more than 42,000 works offers a vast survey of the history of Québec art from the seventeenth century to today.   

WHERE ART, ARCHITECTURE AND NATURE MEET The gateway to the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ), the Pierre Lassonde Pavilion stands on Grande Allée, the iconic avenue leading to Old Québec. This world-class building showcases Québec’s contemporary art, decorative arts and design collections, as well as Inuit art. The pavilion captivates architecture enthusiasts with its spectacular staircase and majestic glass hall: one monumental and spiraling, the other soaring to treetop height and filled with natural light year-round. In the inner courtyard, a large-scale contemporary work by Ludovic Boney engages in dialogue with heritage elements from a former presbytery. A striking contrast in architecture that, on its own, is worth the visit. AN EXCEPTIONAL LOCATION Located in Québec City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec borders the Plains of Abraham. This unique setting, between city and nature, shapes a singular destination to explore. Deeply engaged in the community, the Museum actively takes part in Québec City’s major cultural events throughout the seasons. With Lumière sur l’art, a trail of giant light installations along Cartier Avenue, it helps illuminate the heart of the Montcalm district. A new chapter is unfolding with the creation of Espace Riopelle, a pavilion that will house the most important public collection of works by Jean Paul Riopelle. Opening is scheduled for fall 2026. In the meantime, some areas remain closed due to construction, but the Pierre Lassonde Pavilion continues to offer a rich program of exhibitions and activities. THE NATIONAL COLLECTION The Museum houses the most significant collection of Québec art, with more than 42,500 works created since the 17th century—an exceptional panorama of Québec’s art history. AN EXPERIENCE FOR EVERYONE Looking for inspiring cultural discoveries? A wide range of activities and workshops is offered for all ages. Creativity is celebrated in all its forms, in a spirit of connection and exchange. FIND A SOUVENIR At the Bookstore-Boutique: original artworks, signature items, exhibition catalogues and art books, products inspired by exhibitions and collections, as well as local and handcrafted creations. Selections evolve with the seasons. The Art in My Life collection brings an artistic touch to everyday life.