You can step back in time and learn all about the origins of the famous Barbizon art movement in the charming little village of Barbizon on the edge of the Fontainebleau Forest, just 55 minutes from Paris. It is easy to see how the early artists of the Barbizon school (1830–1875) were inspired by the tranquil landscape; you can visit the artists’ meeting place at Auberge Ganne, which now houses a museum dedicated to their work.

As you walk along the quaint main road, you can see many historical buildings housing restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries. Other historic sites worth a visit are the homes/studios of Jean-Francois Millet and Theodore Rousseau, two of the principle artists of the Barbizon movement.

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