He worked with the icons of his era, his films have become classics, and his performances have earned international recognition. Jean Gabin is a quintessential actor of his generation and still a household name in France. To keep his memory and his body of work alive, a museum dedicated to him has been set up in the small town where he grew up, in the Val d'Oise.
Jean Gabin spent his childhood and adolescence in Mériel, near Auvers-sur-Oise. At 18, with his father's backing, he enters the world of show business. After his military service, he shines as a music-hall performer. He makes his film debut at 24, quickly stacking up roles and becoming a genuine star in France, noted for his charisma.




The Grand Illusion, Port of Shadows, The Sicilian Clan, Hands Off the Loot, Les Misérables, The Thunder of God... Jean Gabin starred in 95 films from the 1930s through the 1970s. He shared the screen with Lino Ventura, Fernandel, Louis de Funès, Bourvil, Jean-Paul Belmondo, Alain Delon...
His career and life story come into sharp focus in Mériel, at a museum housed not far from the actor’s childhood home. The Musée Jean Gabin preserves personal objects, letters and photographs, annotated scripts, original posters, and film clips, plus behind-the-scenes costumes. Some living spaces have also been recreated with period furniture.




The Jean Gabin Museum opened its doors in 1992. It was closed for five years for renovations and reopened in September 2025 with an enhanced visitor route and a new, more intimate memorial space. The museum offers thematic temporary exhibitions focused on the actor's films and life.
To visit this little-known museum, drop by on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. The art venue is closed on public holidays and at certain times of the year, so check the official site before you go. Film fans of the 7th art, the Jean Gabin Museum awaits you!
Location
Jean Gabin Museum
1 place jean gabin, 95630
95630 Meriel
Prices
Moins de 12 ans: Free
Tarif réduit: €5
Plein tarif: €7
Official website
www.musee-gabin.com















