Cité Internationale de la Tapisserie — Exhibitions

A museum dedicated to UNESCO-listed know-how

The Cité Internationale de la Tapisserie, inaugurated in 2016, is the showcase for a six-century-old know-how: Aubusson tapestry, listed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2009. Housed in the former premises of the École Nationale d'Art Décoratif (ENAD), the Cité holds a permanent collection retracing the history of tapestry from the 15th to the 21st century, with exceptional pieces from the Mobilier national and public collections.

Major international temporary exhibitions

Each year, the Cité offers temporary exhibitions that create a dialogue between tapestry and contemporary creation. The Tolkien exhibition in 2024, presenting the entirety of the Tolkien tapestry woven in Aubusson, broke all attendance records. The Miyazaki project, in partnership with Tokyo's Studio Ghibli, includes six monumental tapestries inspired by the universe of the Japanese animation master. A 1,600 m² extension project is underway, with 530 m² dedicated to temporary exhibitions.

George Sand and the future of tapestry

For 2026, the Cité is preparing a monumental tapestry in homage to George Sand for the 150th anniversary of her death, a hybrid tapestry-installation work 23 meters long. This project demonstrates the Cité's commitment to keeping tradition alive while exploring new artistic forms, confirming Aubusson as the world capital of tapestry.