Les Abattoirs

This converter building is a superb space for display contemporary art. There was an extensive installation of the work of Mickalene Thomas. Some of this was quite challenging, but a brilliant exhibition for which people were lining up to enter. There are several levels and to see some of the permanent collection you need to go upstairs. Downstairs, you will see an amazing curtain from the Theatre designed by Picasso. There are three lockers into which you can store your bags. A wonderful experience.

Les Abattoirs is a large and impressive contemporary art museum located in Toulouse. The museum is housed in a former slaughterhouse building, which adds an interesting historical layer to the visit. The transformation of this industrial space into a vibrant cultural center reflects Toulouse’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modern creativity. Inside, the galleries are spacious and thoughtfully curated, with clear signage that helps visitors navigate the diverse exhibitions. The collection features a wide range of contemporary artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and installations by both French and international artists. For lovers of modern art, Les Abattoirs is truly a must-visit, offering an engaging and enriching experience in a unique setting.

It’s worth to visit. A lot of space in the building so you can see everything. But they could have put some words in English along with the French. And don’t try to go to the restaurant! They told me it was all booked this Sunday even if I was just a single person. I found it strange that you can book a table in such a restaurant that is close to the museum.

Excellent space for expos of contemporary artists. The Mikalene Thomas expo was truly inspiring and thought-provoking

Les Abattoirs—literally meaning "The Slaughterhouses"—is Toulouse’s major museum of modern and contemporary art. The building was constructed in the 1820s as the city’s main slaughterhouse and was later transformed into a museum, which officially opened in 2000. The museum focuses on 20th- and 21st-century art, with a collection of around 4,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, photography, video art, and installations. It operates mainly through rotating temporary exhibitions, so the content regularly changes. ※ Included in the Toulouse Pass Tourisme.

Gallery on three floors. The exhibition was not quite the type of modern art I like too much but regardless the gallery is nice. Friendly and helpful staff.

The museum itself is very open and easy to navigate. I simply didn't like the current installation at all. There's one theater curtain that was a dual work by Picasso and a contemporary whose name I've already forgotten. There were interactive and video art pieces that are not my preferred style but perhaps other will find their meaning.

This space is incredible, first of all: turning a slaughterhouse into a museum may not be “new” but putting an exhibition in rural life (old and modern, European and African, very conceptual and very tangible) in it was a way to acknowledge the place and celebrate its rebirth. The EROS temporary exhibition upstairs is pretty amazing, I expected something slightly kinky (to be honest: something we have all already seen a million times) but this was very fine and sophisticated eroticism through allegory. Really loved it, entirely worth a visit!