As autumn returns in September, people of all ages—passionate enthusiasts and the endlessly curious—can enjoy an exceptional annual event. The Heritage Days are back for a 2026 edition that promises even more discoveries in Paris and the Île-de-France region. The rendezvous is set for the weekend of 19 and 20 September. On this occasion, the Réunion des musées nationaux — Grand Palais invites you to open the doors of its workshops in Saint-Denis for small-group tours.
This institution restores works of art on behalf of numerous museums. Thanks to the work of our craftsmen, French works of art and monuments retain their lustre and endure through the centuries, bringing to life thehistory and richness of France.
Themolding workshop - created by the Louvre over two centuries ago - conserves over 12,000 molds and 6,000 models from major French and European collections. The craftsmen and women who work there combine traditional practices with cutting-edge techniques, from the manufacture of a traditional mold to the taking of digital impressions. The craftsmen invite us to discover their work during these Heritage Days.
Guided tour of the Casting Workshop at the Grand Palais RMN
Take a look behind the scenes at the Grand Palais RMN Casting Workshop — a studio proudly certified as a Label France savoir-faire d’excellence and as a Living Heritage Company (EPV). It reveals time-honored artisanal practices and the know-how behind casting sculptures—ancient, revival, and modern—that are made available to museums, institutions, and private collectors.
With more than two centuries of experience, the Casting Workshop — established by the Louvre within its walls — preserves and operates a collection of more than 12,000 molds and models drawn from major French and European collections. It blends traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques: from shaping a classic plaster mold to capturing a sculpture through digital scanning. Throughout the visit, guests will meet the workshop’s artisans and discover the steps involved in producing a cast, from plaster pulling to the finishing touches of patination.
Participation conditions: Limited to 20 participants - Free | Reservations required - https://exploreparis.com/fr/
Schedule: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 10:00–11:00, 11:30–12:30, 14:00–15:00, 15:30–16:30
Guided tour and demonstration at the Grand Palais RMN Chalcography Workshop
Founded in 1797, the Louvre Chalcography is charged with preserving and printing a collection of several thousand engraved copper plates. Once housed under the roofs of the Louvre Palace, the presses are now based in the Grand Palais RMN Art Workshops in Saint-Denis. Visitors will be able to engage with the master printers who work the intaglio plates, watch demonstrations of printing from original plates, and discover every step required to create a print. Custodian of a traditional know-how, the Chalcography workshop is recognized as a living conservatory of this art form.
Participation requirements: Limited to 20 participants - Free | Booking required - https://exploreparis.com/fr/
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 10:30–11:30, 12:00–13:00, 14:30–15:30, 16:00–17:00
This Saturday, September 20, is the perfect day for art and heritage enthusiasts!
Dates and Opening Time
On September 19, 2026
Prices
Free
Official website
ateliers.grandpalaisrmn.fr
