Europe 1600–1815

Welcome to the Victoria and Albert Museum’s Europe galleries: a journey through over 200 years of European art, design and history.

1600 to 1815 was a time of great change in Europe. At the beginning, Italy was the leader of art and design, but France soon took over. Goods and materials from overseas were initially rare and expensive novelties, but 200 years later they were commonplace. At first, luxury, privacy and comfort were a mark of great privilege, but by 1800 they were enjoyed by many more people. Together, these changes laid the foundations of the world we know today.

The galleries are a suite of seven rooms, taking you on journey from the Baroque era to the defeat of Napoleon. They start by the steps from the Grand Entrance, in Room 7, and end by the exit to the Tunnel, in Room 1.

Along the way, you’ll discover a rhythm of long, rectangular galleries alternating with rooms given to a single theme: The Cabinet, The Salon and The Masquerade. Each one offers a special experience. You’ll see when you get there.

You’ll also find three historical interiors: there’s a wood-panelled bedchamber from a 17th-century French country mansion, a little painted room from an 18th-century Parisian townhouse, and a magical gilded and mirrored 18th-century room from Northern Italy. Look out for them along the way.