One of the largest museums in the world today is the Louvre. It was once a palace but now celebrated as a must-visit museum for the well-known works of art such as Mona Lisa and the Venus of Milo.
It was in the late 18th century where Louvre Museum was opened for public viewing, Situated in the 1st arrondisement in the heart of Paris. More likely there are 35,000 objects on display all over the palace of Louvre. The museum has a huge collected works of art aging up to the mid 19th century. Mostly are from European painters and sculptors. There are rooms for relics containing Roman, Greek, Egyptian and Oriental Art as well.
Who can forget the painting of Mona Lisa by the famous Leonardo da Vinci? The Venus of Milo, the Nike of Samothrake and the Dying Slave by Michelangelo, these are just some arts located in the museum. The Louvre Museum was originally built as a 12th century fortress. In 14th century, it was converted as a royal palace.
The current appearance of the museum is inspired by 15th century architecture, when the original castle was demolished and a wing along the Seine River was constructed. The palace was expanded with two courtyards during the 16th century by Architect Lescot. After a decade Cathalina de Medici build the Tuileries palace in the west of the Louvre. The structuring of the Louvre stop in progress some time when king Louis XIV decided to transfer to the Versailles Palace.
In the 19th century Second Empire, the Louvre was reconstructed and now has four wings attaching a large courtyard. In 16th century, the collection for the Louvre, including the famous Mona Lisa was initiated by King Francis I. It turned out to be one of the climaxes of the museum. The collection grew increasingly because of the great efforts and purchases displayed by the kings. The private royal collection was finally opened to the public during the French Revolution.
The latest attraction to the Louvre was the construction of the Glass Pyramid, which serves as the museums main entrance. American architect I.M Pei built it in 1989. There were criticisms when the Glass Pyramid was built. Some say the modern addition contrasts with the classical design of the Louvre, but today it is now recognize as a good act which has given the museum a spacious entrance.
I consider the Louvre as one of the must visit museums in Paris. Especially for those who love art, I consider this place as the mecca of all the greatest masterpieces of all time. Just imagine yourself getting face to face with artworks made by the great Leonardo da Vinci or Michelangelo, it will definitely leave you in awe.
The first time that I have ever heard about the Louvre was in the movie Da Vinci Code. It may sound sad, but I have never really been that interested in museums. So when I saw that the Louvre was actually the place where they keep priceless works of art, I was all the more interested to visit it in person. Ever since seeing that movie, I have had an obsession about visiting this place. So last year, I finally had the chance to visit Paris and this was on top of my list of the must-visits. I enjoyed the tour being led by lecturers of the Louvre. They were so helpful and they actually make you a lover of art after the 90 minutes tour around the Louvre.
You would definitely be stupid if you ever pass the opportunity to visit the Louvre. This museum is not like any other museum in the world, for the main fact that it is home to some of the best artworks of all times. Unforgettable masterpieces from around the globe can probably be seen here. The Louvre is open all days of the week except Tuesdays and special French Holidays. The doors of the museum opens at around 9 am and closes at 6 pm. But during Wednesdays and Fridays, they extend their hours to 10 pm. Entrance to the museum will cost you anywhere from 6 to 14 Euros.
I agree with all your opinions about Louvre, when talking about the best museums in the world. The Louvre would be in the top of the list. Not only because of the historical background it undergone in the past but also its modern features that makes it unique from the other museums. Especially the glass pyramid which is the main attraction when you enter the Louvre.
Производим закупку и продажу различной неликвидной продукции c заводских запасов
ICQ 427-616-956
tel: +38 (063) 407-15-54
Руслан
Greetings I am so delighted I found your web site,
I really found you by accident, while I was searching on Askjeeve for something else, Nonetheless I am
here now and would just like to say kudos for a remarkable post and a all round interesting blog (I also love the
theme/design), I don’t have time to look over it all at the
moment but I have book-marked it and also included your RSS feeds, so
when I have time I will be back to read much more, Please do keep up the superb b.
– What a beautiful htfeearlt post with gorgeous imagery! Mandie I am so glad we got to share this journey in Paris together; it already seems like a distant memory. Cheers to living a life filled with adventure, passion, and following our dreams!
Hi Karen, love your photos. Particularly in that nerlay everything you did and loved in Paris, my wife (Jane) and I did for her birthday (8th Oct). Even down to her favourite omlettes in La Fragate Bistro on the Rive Gauche, near Notre D.SteveEngland
Greetings from Florida! I’m bored to tears at work so I decided to browse your website on my iphone during lunch break. I really like the knowledge you provide here and can’t wait to take a look when I get home. I’m amazed at how quick your blog loaded on my phone .. I’m not even using WIFI, just 3G .. Anyways, superb site!