A destination in France that should not be missed
The Louvre, the world’s most famous museum, was originally a royal palace. The greatness and popularity of this museum can be easily understood from the fact that it is the most visited museum in the world. So, no doubt, it is a must see destination for anyone who visits Paris and particularly for those interested in art and history. A visit to the Louvre after a French barge cruise is a great way to see famous artist’s renderings of some of the sites you have seen on your while on your cruise. So, get on board a Paris river cruise and discover the wonders of artistic expression both inside and out.
Though the Louvre Museum is house to countless number of works, the most celebrated ones include the Mona Lisa and the Venus of Milo. One of the finest art galleries in the world, the Louvre takes pride in a collection of over one million classic and modern masterpieces. However, about 35 000 are on display, spread out over three wings of the former palace. The works include Near Eastern Antiquities, Egyptian Antiquities, Greek, Etruscan, and Roman Antiquities, Islamic Art, Sculptures, Decorative Arts, Paintings, Prints and Drawings. This is a jewel in the crown of French culture and a grand celebration of European history and civilization.
Some of the greatest works of art in the museum are the Venus of Milo, the Nike of Samothrake, the Dying Slave by Michelangelo and of course Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa.
The Louvre Museum put up its first exhibition of works in the 16th century as the private collection of King Francis I. He purchased some of the works of art, one of which was the now famous Mona Lisa painting.
You enter the museum through the Louvre Pyramid or via the Carrousel du Louvre, thereon you have access to three large wings: Sully, Richelieu and Denon. As you walk through the museum, you feel as if you are walking through the history of France and into the minds of kings and revolutionaries. The major contribution towards making this museum what it is today is attributed to the reigns of Louis XIII and Louis XIV. During their reigns, there was major expansion and a linking of the palaces and halls.
The iconic pyramid building of the Louvre Museum is surrounded by Carrousel gardens. These gardens are enchanting and are a fascinating area in France to relevant to discuss Paris art and reflect on the wonders of the great Louvre Museum!