Tucked away in the heart of Colmar’s old town lies a cultural treasure many travelers overlook: the Bartholdi Museum, dedicated to Auguste Bartholdi, the celebrated sculptor born in Colmar in 1834 — and best known as the creator of the Statue of Liberty.
The museum is housed in the very home where Bartholdi was born. It spans three floors and immerses visitors in the artist's fascinating life, from his Alsatian roots to his grand international legacy. Through original models, sketches, personal belongings, photographs, and large-scale bronze casts, the museum reveals the evolution of his artistic vision and the deep humanism that shaped his monuments.
One of the most compelling aspects of the museum is the scale models of the Statue of Liberty, including a dramatic cast of the statue's face, torch, and hand, which allow visitors to appreciate the colossal proportions of the final work in New York Harbor. But beyond Lady Liberty, Bartholdi was a prolific sculptor of public monuments across France, particularly in Alsace and Paris. You’ll find models of the Lion of Belfort, the fountains of Lyon, and numerous patriotic allegories born in the context of France’s tumultuous 19th century.
A little-known detail: Bartholdi initially intended the Statue of Liberty to stand at the entrance to the Suez Canal in Egypt, symbolizing “Egypt bringing light to Asia.” That version, however, was never realized — and the concept evolved years later into the American monument we know today.
Another curiosity? In the museum courtyard stands a replica of the Statue of Liberty, surrounded by a peaceful garden. While much smaller than her transatlantic sister, this version still stirs the same sense of grandeur and hope.
Tip for travelers: This museum is a must-visit for photography lovers — the sculptural details, vintage interiors, and play of light through tall Alsatian windows create wonderful compositions. Combine your visit with a short walking tour of other Bartholdi works scattered around the city, such as the Fontaine Schwendi on Place de l’Ancienne Douane.
