The Valais Art Museum in Sion presents the art collection of the State of Valais, comprising some 6,000 works devoted to the Alpine landscape and the Savièse School. You can discover it in the medieval Vidomnat and Majorie castles in the old town.
Fine and applied arts museums
Main highlights
- Collection of 6,000 works focused on the landscape and imagery of the mountains
- Savièse School with paintings by Raphael Ritz, Ernest Biéler and Edouard Vallet
- Vidomnat and Majorie castles, a medieval setting at the foot of Valère and Tourbillon
Overview
The Valais Art Museum is the canton’s art museum, founded in 1947 in the old town of Sion. It occupies the medieval Vidomnat and Majorie castles, at the foot of the Valère and Tourbillon hills. Since its opening, its collection has grown to some 6,000 works.
The museum builds its collections around three themes : the landscape and imagery of the mountains, artists associated with the Savièse School, and contemporary art related to these themes. Together, they trace Valais art from the 18th century onwards and reflect the canton’s cultural identity.
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What to see and do
The permanent exhibition follows the Alpine landscape, from the sublime in the Alps to the energies of nature and on to contemporary creation. Highlights include works by Raphael Ritz, Marguerite Burnat-Provins, Ernest Biéler, Edouard Vallet, Angel Duarte, Pierre Vadi and Valentin Carron.
The Savièse School takes centre stage. This early 20th-century movement renewed the depiction of rural Valais, observing local traditions through a modern lens.
The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions. They shed light on different facets of the cantonal collection and engage in dialogue with contemporary works created specifically for the venue. From room to room, the medieval architecture of the two castles accompanies the artworks.
Practical information
Access : the museum is located on Rue des Châteaux, in the old town of Sion. Several car parks are available nearby.
Cantonal museums : the museum is part of the Cantonal Museums of Valais, along with the History Museum and the Nature Museum. A combined ticket gives access to all three.
Accessibility : tailored tours are available for visually impaired and blind visitors.
Visiting tips
Between the artworks, take time to observe the architectural details of the medieval castles, which are an integral part of the visit.
Check the temporary exhibition programme before you go : they often highlight lesser-known aspects of the collection. The combined ticket lets you extend your day at the two other cantonal museums.
Nearby attractions
- The Valais Nature Museum in Sion showcases Alpine biodiversity and human impact on the environment.
- The fortified 12th-century Basilica of Valère houses the oldest playable organ in the world.
- Tourbillon Castle, the former residence of the Bishops of Sion, offers panoramic views over the town.
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