Victor Hugo was a passionate and learned artist: his literary works as much as his graphic art reveal his deep interest in architecture. Throughout his life, the writer was inspired by the monuments and buildings that define the vibrant centers of cities. For him, architecture was a way to embody and preserve history itself.
The Victor Hugo House in Paris is hosting a special thematic exhibition centered on this subject, titled Hugo and Architecture: From Stone to Pen. Running from June 11 to November 22, 2026, visitors can explore this recurring theme in Hugo's work through a curated selection of notebooks, sketches, and writings.
Once you notice it, it becomes obvious: Victor Hugo’s entire body of work is deeply influenced by architecture. In his novels, detailed descriptions of churches, castles, keeps, streets, fortresses, and roads abound... Not to mention, of course, the cathedrals—most notably, the Parisian ones that serve as worlds unto themselves in Notre-Dame de Paris. Hugo was fascinated by these stones—by what they reveal and what they symbolize.
These silent stories are chronicled in the writer’s books, forming the foundation of a setting or a narrative. These locations serve a purpose, but they are also captivating in the eyes of the author: Victor Hugo championed this architectural heritage and highlighted its beauty in his works.
He talks about it as much as he sketches it: the exhibition features numerous sketches, drawings, and notebooks filled with depictions of castles, churches, streets, and staircases. These highly detailed and carefully crafted illustrations reveal Victor Hugo’s deep fascination with architectural elements.
The Victor Hugo House offers us a fresh glimpse into a significant aspect of the artist’s world. Open to visitors during the sunnier months and throughout the latter half of the year.
Dates and Opening Time
From June 11, 2026 to November 22, 2026
Location
Victor Hugo's house
6, place des Vosges
75004 Paris 4
Official website
www.maisonsvictorhugo.paris.fr
