Visiting the Louvre is at the top of the list for any first-time visitor to Paris. Quite easily one of the world’s finest museums, the Louvre, is known almost as much for its architecture and history as for the artwork it houses. While the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo draw plenty of attention on the inside of the building, I.M Pei’s pyramid and the beautiful architecture of the former royal fortress provide the photo opportunities for guests waiting patiently in line. Indeed, located in the 1st arrondissement, the Louvre has an impressive history, and one that has played a central role in the story of Paris. New York Habitat’s apartments also play a role in the fabric of the city, and guests are invited to engage the city by staying in an authentic Paris apartment.
The Louvre dates back to the late 12th century, when it was built for French royalty. The grounds remained property of the throne until 1793 when the Musée du Louvre was born as a public institution. However, the Louvre museum has not been immune from outside events. In 1939, on the eve of Nazi occupation, concerned Frenchman evacuated the Louvre’s collections, except for the heaviest pieces which were too obtuse to transport. For the next 6 years works were shuffled between Chateaus in the south of the country in order to keep them from falling into enemy hands. This summer, the museum will be displaying its history during WWII by presenting some 40 photographs of the Louvre taken by both professionals and amateurs between 1939 and 1947. The photographs offer a unique view on the life of one of France’s icons during the country’s most trying moments.
We have plenty of cozy, convenient accommodations in the 1st arrondissement, near the Louvre, for you. Here’s a few to get your search started:
-This 2-bedroom rental apartment in Montorgueil, Opera-Le Louvre (PA-3246) is just a short walk from the famed museum and features an open design and large living-room windows.
-This quirky 1-bedroom rental apartment in Halles, Opera-Le Louvre (PA-3574) has a wonderful Right Bank location. The renovated accommodation features a decorative fireplace and is tastefully furnished.
Can you think of any other museums that have had to disperse their collection during a grave crisis? Please comment below.
Another museum who may have to disperse their collection is the Orsay Museum. They probably have to ship their paintings somewhere through the world. However, no matter where you see those art pieces, paintings you must must see them in Paris.
I feel like the Louvre often gets over-looked because it is so famous and “touristy” but it truly is a great museum with so much history. If ever in Paris, one needs to pay a visit. It is easy to pass hours in the museum.
I believe the Louvre is one of the most visited museums in the world, if not the most visited. But this should not detract from its importance and them many relics of art history that it holds. It is an extraordinary place, and a perfect fit for the city of Paris.
I will recommend to have a Paris museum pass to visit all of the museums in Paris! This is a really easy and convenient way to visit the museums (plus not mentionning the fact that you will not have to wait in lines!)
I saw that movie The Da Vinci Code and there’s some great scenes in there from The Louvre which sparked my fancy to put that museum on the top of my list when we visit Paris this summer. I’m dying to see The Mona Lisa!