Musée du Louvre is the world's largest art museum housing around 70,000 pieces of artworks.
If you’re a history buff, then this place is for you! The Louvre Museum houses around 70,000 pieces of artworks, including the world famous Mona Lisa, but not all are displayed.
History
The Louvre originally started as a fortress in the late 12th century when Philip II, the first known King of France, began the construction of a defensive outpost to prevent invasions from the North. The building’s first original design was modified by Charles V in the 14th century, only to be derailed by Hundred Years War. In 1527, Francis I ordered the original structure to be demolished in favor of a new lavish Renaissance-style compound. During the French Revolution, the Louvre was decreed to be a museum to display the nation’s masterpieces and on August 10, 1793, the Musée du Louvre officially opened its doors to the public.
Admission
Visitors can buy tickets on Louvre’s website, or at the museum itself, but it’s more advisable to purchase ahead of time. Ticket costs €15,00. The lines for ticket holders and those who are yet to buy are separated, thus it’s quicker for the former to get in.
Opening Hours
Monday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday: from 09:00 AM to 06:00 PM.
Wednesday, Friday: from 09:00 AM to 09:45 PM.
Closed on Tuesdays
Rooms begin closing 30 minutes before museum closing time.
For online purchasers like me, download link for your e-ticket will be sent to your email. You are required to print it on a white sheet of A4 and bring it with you on the day of your visit. Any e-ticket that is partially or incorrectly printed, soiled, damaged or illegible will be deemed invalid. Your e-ticket is personal, nominative and non-transferable and you must keep it with you throughout your visit. You may be asked to show proof of ID to gain admission. Ensure that you arrive on the date and time shown on your e-ticket.
Location
Musée du Louvre is located on the right bank of the Seine River. This landmark in the city center can be easily reached via Palais-Royal–Musée du Louvre or Louvre-Rivoli Métro stations.
My Experience
It was my birthday on the day I decided to visit The Louvre so it was extra special! 🙂 Got up really early so I was there in front of the line even before the museum opened. As the clock hit 09:00 AM, the doors were opened and I went straight to the room where the famous Mona Lisa painting was. I just knew it would be really crowded if I went at a later time. The room was pretty far from the entrance, but there are guides that direct you to the exact location.
A colleague who I asked for tips told me that she and her boyfriend spent 6 hours inside when they visited here. I was like – uhmmm, why? My question was answered when I, myself, saw the place! No exaggeration but you’d probably have to spend half a day to see all the corners of this museum. I personally spent just 3 hours exploring as my feet couldn’t bear all the walking anymore. Also, I had another itinerary that day so I had to manage my time.
Visual Journal
The different collections of masterpieces are really worth every single Euro you pay to see them, so make sure you visit The Louvre if you can. From here onward, I hope you enjoy all the visuals that I’m sharing.
If you are grabbing any of my photos, kindly credit the site, or let me know in the comments section. Cheers!