15 Interesting Louvre Museum Facts You Probably Didn't Know!

Facts About Louvre Museum

1. Time travel to the Louvre Museum’s origins
2. Admire the Museum’s Architectural Journey
3. Discover Antique Egyptian and Near Eastern Treasures
4. Explore the Renaissance and Italian Art
5. Admire the French Classics
6. Take a look at the Sculptural Wonders
7. Glance at the exotic Decorative Arts
8. Explore the expansive Asian Art Collection
9. Admire the unique Islamic Art
10. Take a look at priceless European Paintings
11. Visit the Napoleon Apartments
12. Immerse yourself in Modern Art
13. Dive into the Contemporary collection
14. Attend Exhibitions and Special Installations
15. Enjoy the wholesome Visitor Experience

When in Paris, it is impossible not to visit the famous Louvre Museum. Renowned for its installation of the world-famous ‘The Mona Lisa’ by Leonardo da Vinci. It's one of the most-visited places in the town and for all the right reasons. And to know more about it, explore our ultimate guide for Louvre Museum facts and find out what makes it so popular!

For instance, you'd be amazed to know that the Louvre Museum which houses approximately 500,000 items, was once a fortress. It was built by Philip II in the 12th century and was later transformed into a luxurious royal palace during the 16th century. Since it housed centuries of art from across the globe, the government decided to open it to the public in the 18th century.

Some of the most famous artworks at the museum include the Mona Lisa, Liberty Leading the People, and The Wedding at Cana.

Spread across an area of 6,50,000 square feet, it's home to more than 35,000 paintings displayed across 8 unique sections. From iconic paintings, and sculptures, to ancient relics, the Louvre Museum has something for everyone.

So, art buffs and history aficionados gather around to get your mind blown away with intriguing facts about the Louvre Museum!

Here are 15 amazing facts about Louvre Museum you’ve likely never heard:

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01

Time travel to the Louvre Museum’s Origins

One of the most fascinating Louvre Museum facts is that it wasn't always a museum. Originally, it used to be a fortress that was built by King Auguste during the 12th century. For the next 4 centuries, the fortress protected the city of Paris against its enemies.

In the 16th century, it was given a makeover under various rulers like Louis XIV2 and Louis XIII. During and after the renovation and expansion, it continued being the royal residence for the royal families. It was only after the French Revolution in the 18th century, that the palace opened its doors to the general public as a museum. Today, it houses a huge collection of artefacts and paintings from different cultures around the world.

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02

Admire the Museum’s Architectural Journey

The architecture of the Louvre Museum is something that brings together the best of historic and modern elements. Its architecture stands as a symbol of its rich cultural and historical importance. One of the intriguing facts about the Louvre Museum is that it's still home to the remains of the original fortress. As you take a walk in the galleries, you’ll notice that there’s a hint of Renaissance in the architecture.

Francis I added that touch in the 16th century, which eventually blended with the modern, and Gothic style in the years that followed. While you’re there, don’t forget to visit the Colonnade and the Cour Carrée, which showcase the historic architecture of the museum.

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03

Discover Antique Egyptian and Near Eastern Treasures

You can find a wide range of Egyptian and Near Eastern art at the Louvre Museum. Some of the Louvre Museum facts reveal that it houses more than 50,000 items that date back to the Predynastic period.

Among them, the 4,500-year-old Great Sphinx of Tanis is an antiquity that'll catch your attention the most. On the other hand, the section that showcases Near Eastern objects isn't far behind in surprising visitors with its artefacts. It houses many artefacts from Mesopotamia and Persia, like the Code of Hammurabi, which is a historic stone tablet with carvings related to legal procedures. How amazing is it to know that a legal system existed 3,600 years ago!

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04

Explore the Renaissance and Italian Art

Renaissance, which translates to 'rebirth' in French, was a time when artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo redefined art forever. It was during this time, that the world-famous painting of 'Mona Lisa' came into existence. Immerse yourself in the museum’s Renaissance collection and check out the artworks that portray historic events.

Did you know? The biggest painting in the Louvre Museum, 'Wedding at Cana', is showcased in this section. And yes, happens to be the painting that shows the iconic moment when Jesus turned water into red wine. There are other equally impressive artworks that you explore in the museum, such as Titian’s The Entombment, and La Belle Jardinière by Raphael.

05

Admire the French Classics

The French, as we all know, have always been known for their contribution to art. From French Romanticism, and Rennaisance, to everything beyond, the Louvre Museum has the best works from all genres. If you dig into some Louvre Museum facts, you'll find that around 36% of the total artworks at the museum are French. Prepare to dive into the world of French art and admire the masterpieces by Eugène Delacroix and Jacques-Louis David.

Take a look at the artworks by Delacroix, who was known for creating 'Liberty Leading the People'. The painting portrays a lady holding a French flag, which never fails to impress art enthusiasts. From innovation, sophistication, and cultural influence, there's nothing that the French artworks have missed out on.

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06

Take a look at the Sculptural Wonders

What comes to your mind when we say the word 'Sculptures'? From Greek statues to Egyptian antiquities, the Louvre Museum has it all. You must have seen them before in your history books, or maybe in a documentary. But watching them up close is an entirely different experience.

One of the most unique facts about Louvre Museum is that it houses approximately 10,000 sculptures. Marvel at the charming 'Venus de Milo', which is a stunning historical sculpture, known for its Greek charm. As you explore further, you'll also notice the Winged Victory of Samothrace, a sculpture of the Greek goddess of triumph. For all enthusiasts of Renaissance art, Michelangelo's masterpieces await, including The Dying Slave and The Rebellious Slave. Speaking of historic sculptures, remember to admire the 4,500-year-old 'Great Sphinx of Tanis'.

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07

Glance at the Exotic Decorative Arts

Some lesser-known Louvre Museum facts are about its extensive collection of decorative arts. Now, what's so special about exploring decorative arts at the museum? Well, what makes them special is that these items once belonged to the royal families from times as old as the 19th century.

You can take a look at various artefacts like French crown jewels, stained glass, ceramics, furniture, and tapestries. When you see the Crown of Louis XV of France, you'll be able to imagine the incredibly luxurious life of the royal families. Another such opulent artefact that you can see at the museum, is the Tiara of the Duchesse of Angouleme. You will be surprised by its highly detailed design which includes diamonds and precious gems.

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08

Explore the expansive Asian Art Collection

Asians haven't been far behind the French when it comes to art. Countries like India, China, Japan, Korea, and other Southeast Asian nations have been known for their art for centuries. You can admire many masterpieces from various Asian cultures at the 'Pavillon des Sessions' section of the Louvre museum.

And, it doesn't end with the artworks, you can also browse through a wide range of artefacts such as ceramics, textiles, and sculptures. Some of the most popular items include delicate porcelain from China and detailed Buddhist sculptures. While you're there, visit the Pavillon des Sessions, which offers valuable insight into pottery techniques, jade carving styles, and a lot more.

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09

Admire the unique Islamic Art

One of the mind-blowing Louvre Museum facts, is that it houses one of the most historic Islamic Art Collections on the planet. You can explore more than 3,000 items spanning between the 7th and the 19th century. There is also an open-air courtyard called the 'Cour Visconti', where you’ll find many artefacts like vases, decorated bowls, and glass lamps.

There is also an incredible metal and glass structure, which has been built to look like a floating veil. Another fun fact about this section of the Louvre Museum is the natural lighting layout. You'll notice that light from outside is allowed to enter to make the antiques look more appealing. That makes browsing through the artistic Islamic heritage, a visual treat.

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10

Take a look at priceless European Paintings

Another fact about Louvre Museum is that it boasts an impressive collection of European paintings. When we say impressive, we mean that the collection covers everything from the Medieval times to the modern day. You can explore the many paintings that belong to different schools like Baroque, French Romanticism, and Italian Renaissance.

Some of the most popular works showcased in the museum include those of Leonardo da Vince, Eugène Delacroix, and Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres. You’ll also get to see the famous Mona Lisa here, which you’ll find covered in a bullet-proof glass shield. While you’re there, remember to tap into the digital database provided at the counters, and learn more about the historical artworks.

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11

Visit the Napoleon Apartments

Some lesser-known Louvre Museum facts reveal, that back in the day, Napoleon once even renamed the Louvre to 'Musée Napoleon'. The grandeur of the ruler can be noticed once you step into the Napoleon III Apartments.

You will be truly amazed by the lavish lifestyle that the historic apartments portray. Located in the Richelieu wing, these apartments were once used to host grand receptions. You can take a look at the walls and ceilings decorated with silver, gold, and velvet in a stucco style. It’s really impressive how well the apartments of Napoleon have been preserved by professionals. It’s almost as if Napoleon himself would walk into a room at any time.

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12

Immerse yourself in Modern Art

If you're someone who loves learning about different traditions and cultures, the Louvre Museum offers an expansive collection of Modern art. From the most iconic masterpieces including 'Mona Lisa' by Leonardo da Vinci to 'Liberty Leading the People' by Delacroix. The museum leaves no page unturned when it comes to showcasing the world-famous modern artworks.

Take a look at 'Grande Odalisque' by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, one of the most popular artists of the 19th century. You can also feast your eyes on many stunning sculptures like Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace. That’s not all! The museum also has a wide range of innovative sculptures and installations to look at.

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13

Dive Into the Contemporary Collection

The Louvre Museum welcomes contemporary art lovers from around the globe with a grand collection. You can choose to admire a wide range of contemporary artworks from different corners of the world. One of the most incredible Louvre Museum facts is that it will take you roughly 100 days to explore all of the artworks if you dedicated 30 seconds to each.

You can explore 'Galerie Campana' which is a section dedicated to contemporary artworks that showcase decorative objects and innovative furniture. Another popular artwork to see in the huge collection is 'The Tree of Life' made by Giuseppe. It’s a sculpture that blends human life with natural elements, portraying the complexity of life.

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14

Attend Exhibitions and Special Installations

The Louvre Museum is known to host several Exhibitions and Special Installations throughout the year. You can attend the 'Olympism Modern Invention, Ancient Legacy' which is hosted between April and September. The event highlights the key aspects of historic Olympic ideologies and their interpretation in the modern form.

Or you can choose to watch 'Masterpieces from the Torlonia Collection' between June and November. During which, you’ll get a chance to discover exquisite and rare items from the Torlonia family's private collection. Some of the items include paintings, decorative arts, and sculptures. One of the most interesting Louvre Museum facts is that it's home to more than 35,000 unique items of interest from diverse cultures.

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15

Enjoy the Wholesome Visitor Experience

The Louvre Museum offers a fantastic visitor experience to travellers from all over the globe. It provides tourists with a wide range of facilities to ensure their comfort and convenience. You can keep your luggage at the self-service lockers, located under the pyramid, available free of cost. For visitors with physical disabilities, walking sticks and wheelchairs are provided at the visitor assistance area.

You can also access free WiFi when under the Pyramid as well as in the exhibition zones. Restrooms are available at various places throughout the museum and include baby-changing platforms for convenience. If you're visiting via car, you can use the parking available at Général Lemonier Avenue, available at discounted rates for tourists with disabilities. You can also opt for an audio guide which is available in 9 languages including French, German, English, and more.

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