The Gendarmerie Museum in Saint-Tropez
In Saint-Tropez, famous for its timeless charm, golden beaches and lively streets, there’s one place that attracts film buffs and history buffs alike: the Musée de la Gendarmerie et du Cinéma. Housed in theformer gendarmerie building, built in 1879, the site has become a veritable symbol thanks to the famous “Gendarmes” saga that was filmed here. At the crossroads of local history and cinema, this museum immerses visitors in two fascinating worlds: that of the gendarmerie through its historical evolution, and that of cinema, which has left its mark on the collective imagination, turning Saint-Tropez into a veritable cultural icon. Discover the Gendarmerie Museum during your stay at our campsite in Saint-Tropez.
Museum history
Origins of the Saint-Tropez Gendarmerie
The building that today houses this emblematic museum was built in 1879 to house the local gendarmerie brigade. For over a century, this institution ensured the safety of the local population and contributed to the life of the commune, which has become a nerve center of the Côte d’Azur. Initially dedicated to anti-poaching and coastal surveillance, the gendarmerie adapted over the decades, playing a key role in Saint-Tropez’s tourism boom in the XXᵉ century.
The transformation into a museum
In 2003, the gendarmerie left the building for good. Rather than abandon this site steeped in history, the town decided to restore it. In 2016, following renovation work, the Musée de la Gendarmerie et du Cinéma opened its doors, highlighting the importance of this site in both local history and popular culture.
Today, the museum embodies the soul of the Tropez: a skilful blend of tradition and modernity, and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
Total immersion in the world of cinema
A tribute to the “Gendarmes” saga
The “Gendarmes” saga, directed by Jean Girault between 1964 and 1982, is inextricably linked with Saint-Tropez. Driven by the unrivalled talent of Louis de Funès, these comedies have left their mark on generations of viewers. The museum devotes a large part of its space to this legendary series, exhibiting its iconic costumes, props and sets.
Cult reconstructions and sets
One of the star attractions of the Musée de la Gendarmerie in Saint-Tropez is the faithful reconstruction of the gendarmerie offices as they appeared in the movies. During your visit, you’ll be able to see the gendarmes’ lockers, period uniforms and even identically reconstructed scenes. A life-size sculpture of Louis de Funès, dressed as Cruchot, also sits proudly in the lobby, paying homage to the legendary actor.
The Nationale 7 and movie stars
In addition to the “Gendarmes” saga, the museum showcasesother great Saint-Tropez movie moments. For example, one of the rooms recreates the famous Nationale 7, emblematic of 1960s vacations, with vintage cars such as the 2CV and the Simca Aronde. Star fans will also find recreated dressing rooms for Brigitte Bardot and Romy Schneider, two icons whose talent and aura left their mark on the city’s cinema and history.
A celebration of the gendarmerie
The evolution of the gendarmerie
Alongside the cinema, the museum also traces theevolution of the gendarmerie corps since the XIXᵉ century. Archive items, period uniforms and service weapons give visitors a better understanding of the missions of these men and women who guarantee the safety of the French people.
Educational and interactive exploration
With explanatory panels, videos and never-before-seen interviews, the museum perfectly blends learning and immersion. Visitors can discover how the role of the gendarmes has evolved over time, from protecting farmland to managing the influx of tourists.
A course for all ages
The Musée de la Gendarmerie de Saint-Tropez has been designed to captivate all audiences, from adult history and film buffs to young, novice children. Adults can explore exhibitions rich in detail, with archival documents, exclusive interviews and historical re-enactments that deepen their understanding of the history of the gendarmerie and cinema in Saint-Tropez. For children, fun activities and interactive games inspired by mythical scenes allow them to have fun while discovering these worlds in an educational way.
Practical information
Opening hours
- Until February 29: 10am-5pm.
- 1ᵉʳ March to June 30: 10am-6pm.
- July-August: 10am-7pm (Thursday evenings until 9pm).
- 1ᵉʳ September to October 31: 10am-6pm.
- November to end of January: 10am-5pm.
Rates
- Full price: €5.
- Reduced rate : 3 € (young people aged 12 to 18, students under 26, police officers and jobseekers with proof of employment).
- Free for children under 12 and during events such as Nuit des Musées.
Access
- Address: 2, place Blanqui, 83990 Saint-Tropez.
- Parking: At the entrance to the town, with easy pedestrian access to the museum.
The Musée de la Gendarmerie et du Cinéma de Saint-Tropez is a key stop-off point for immersing yourself in local history and rediscovering key moments in French cinema. Whether you’re a heritage enthusiast, an admirer of the “Gendarmes” saga or curious to discover the role of Saint-Tropez in the collective imagination, this museum offers an enriching experience accessible to all.
