Heritage Days 2026 in Paris: the little-known Cognacq-Jay Museum unveils its program

Published by Cécile de Sortiraparis, Rizhlaine de Sortiraparis · Photos by Cécile de Sortiraparis · Updated on July 3, 2026 at 03:51 p.m.
For the 43rd edition of Heritage Days, the Cognacq-Jay Museum, nestled in the heart of Paris’s 3rd arrondissement, will open its doors to all visitors on 19 and 20 September 2026. Set out to discover this little-known gem in the capital.

Art and history enthusiasts are gathering at Musée Cognacq-Jay for the 42nd edition of Journées du Patrimoine on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September 2026. This museum houses a rich collection of sculptures, furniture, paintings and other works of art assembled between 1900 and 1925 by the founder of the Samaritaine, Ernest Cognacq and his wife Marie-Louise Jay.

This major cultural event is an opportunity to admire not only theHôtel de Donon, which houses the museum, but also the many paintings, sculptures, drawings and precious objects collected by Ernest Cognacq, founder of the Samaritaine department stores. A great lover of18th-century art, the wealthy businessman now allows us to contemplate all that made up the spirit of the French Enlightenment.

The Cognacq-Jay Museum invites you to explore its exceptional collections. A museum that’s often overlooked by the public, it also surprises with an unconventional artistic program you won’t want to miss. Take advantage of these Heritage Days 2026 to discover one of the Marais’ and Paris’ treasures. Please note that reservations are required.

The 2026 Heritage Days program at the Cognacq-Jay Museum:

  • Heritage Echoes: From Marais to Bach

    From Marin Marais's Follia to Bach's Suites, passing through Forqueray, a thread of wonder will connect the ages in the courtyard of the Cognacq-Jay Museum, thanks to Zoé Saubat's cello.

    Participation conditions : Free entry subject to availability. - Free | No reservation required

    Schedule: Sunday, September 20, 2026 — 11:00–12:00, 15:00–16:00

An unusual open house for an equally unique museum! Shall we go?

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During the 2026 Heritage Days, numerous museums and art foundations open their doors for free in Paris and the Île-de-France region. Mark your calendars for Saturday, 19 September and Sunday, 20 September 2026 to enjoy a program rich with exciting discoveries. [Read more]

Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
From September 19, 2026 to September 20, 2026

× Approximate opening times: to confirm opening times, please contact the establishment.

    Location

    8, rue Elzévir
    75003 Paris 3

    Route planner

    Accessibility info

    Access
    Metro line 1 "Saint-Paul" station

    Prices
    Free

    Official website
    www.museecognacqjay.paris.fr

    Booking
    reservation.cognacqjay@paris.fr

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