Claude Debussy's House

A special place, assembling a collection of objects associated with the famous French composer in the house where he was born: Claude Debussy's birthplace is located in the historic quarter of Saint-Germain-en-Laye.
It was in this 17-century house in the town that Claude Debussy was born, on 22 August 1862, and spent his early childhood. His father ran a china shop on the ground floor.
After the composer's death in 1918, it soon became the main gathering place of his many admirers.

Once inside, you will discover a wonderful little inner courtyard, where a splendid wooden staircase will lead you up to the museum.

The museum, officially recognised as a 'Maison des illustres' ('Houses of the Famous'), displays objects and photographs that help provide a better understanding of the composer's creative process. In fact, Debussy liked to surround himself with objects from different places and artistic movements, which influenced his music. For example, a Japanese lacquered panel, which came from his Parisian mansion, depicting two fish swimming under a willow, musically metamorphosed into 'Poissons d'or', a piano piece (1907).

A small museum but a grand tribute to one of France's greatest composers!