Louvre Museum

The Louvre Palace began as a medieval fortress in the 12th century and was extensively redesigned and extended over centuries to form the present complex. In the 1980s and 1990s, the 'Grand Louvre' project, designed by architect I.M. Pei, transformed the site by moving administrative functions and creating a new underground lobby. This project included the inauguration of the iconic glass pyramid entrance in 1989 and the renovation of the North (Richelieu) Wing in 1993.

The building narrowly escaped serious damage during the suppression of the Paris Commune in 1871. The architectural history reflects a transition from a defensive fortress to a Renaissance palace and finally to a modern museum complex.

The Louvre houses one of the world's most extensive art collections, including iconic masterpieces such as the Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Mona Lisa. The painting department is one of the richest in the world, featuring European art up to the mid-19th century, including works by Caravaggio, such as 'The Fortune Teller', and Ingres' 'Grande Odalisque'. The museum also holds significant Near Eastern antiquities, Egyptian artifacts, and Islamic art, with the latter department opening in a prominent location in 2012.

In October 2025, the museum suffered a major theft of nine pieces of imperial and royal jewelry from the Galerie d'Apollon, including the crown of Eugénie.

The Louvre is recognized as the world's most-visited art museum, with attendance reaching 8.9 million in 2023. Its significance extends beyond its collection to its role as a symbol of French cultural identity and a model for public museums globally. The museum has faced modern challenges, including overcrowding and staffing issues, which led to employee strikes in June 2025.

The 2025 jewelry theft, which resulted in the resignation of the museum's president in 2026, highlighted ongoing security concerns. The institution continues to expand its reach through satellite locations, such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and maintains a commitment to displaying art from diverse cultures and time periods.