What to see at the Louvre
The Louvre is one of the largest and most visited museums in the world, containing a treasure trove of art and culture. Located in the heart of Paris, it offers visitors the opportunity to admire masterpieces that span centuries of history and diverse cultures.
In its majestic halls, you’ll find masterpieces by famous artists and various collections such as Egyptian, Roman, and Renaissance artifacts.
The Mona Lisa
The most famous attraction is Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, with its enigmatic smile that captivates visitors from around the world.
Despite its smaller size compared to other works, it's almost always surrounded by a crowd of visitors eager to get a close look at its magnetic gaze.
Tip: arrive early to avoid the crowd or visit the room in the late afternoon. The Mona Lisa is located in the Salle des États, easily accessible from the Pyramid.
The Venus de Milo
One of the Louvre's best-known sculptures, the Venus de Milo embodies the essence of classical Greek beauty. Discovered on the island of Milos, this marble sculpture, dating from the 2nd century BC, is admired for its graceful forms and the mystery of its missing arms.
The work is displayed in the section dedicated to Greek art, on the lower floor of the Sully Wing.
Winged Victory of Samothrace
The Winged Victory of Samothrace, also known as Nike of Samothrace, is another iconic symbol of the Louvre that leaves visitors in awe. It represents the Greek goddess of victory, with spread wings and a body leaning forward, creating a sense of dynamism. This colossal statue is positioned atop a monumental staircase, making its presence even more imposing and dramatic.
The Code of Hammurabi
One of the oldest and most significant works in the Louvre is the Code of Hammurabi, a Babylonian stone stele dating back to the 18th century BC. This ancient code of laws represents one of the earliest examples of written jurisprudence and is a unique historical testimony of ancient Mesopotamian civilization.
The Wedding at Cana
In the same room as the Mona Lisa is Paolo Veronese's masterpiece: The Wedding at Cana. This painting, one of the largest at the Louvre, depicts a lively and colorful biblical scene filled with characters and gestures, creating an engaging atmosphere.
The Egyptian Collections
The Louvre has one of the most important collections of Egyptian art in the world. Here, you can find invaluable artifacts, including sarcophagi, jewelry, papyri, statues, and mummies. One of the most famous objects is the Seated Scribe, a sculpture representing a seated scribe with a surprisingly vivid and realistic expression.
Highlights in the Egyptian section include the Statue of the God Horus, the sarcophagus collection, and the papyri and ancient hieroglyphics.
The Italian Painting Collection
Besides the Mona Lisa, the Louvre hosts numerous works by Italian Renaissance masters. Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian are just a few of the great Italian artists represented in the collection. A particularly beloved work is Saint John the Baptist by Leonardo da Vinci, which depicts the saint with a serene and mysterious expression, typical of Leonardo's style.
Italian paintings are mainly displayed in the Denon Wing, a must-see for Renaissance art enthusiasts.
Temporary Exhibitions and Cultural Events
In addition to the permanent collection, the Louvre regularly organizes temporary exhibitions and cultural events that allow visitors to delve into specific themes or discover works on loan from other museums. The temporary exhibitions cover a wide range of topics, from ancient art to modern painting, providing a unique way to experience the museum.
Tips for Enjoying the Louvre’s Artwork without the Crowd
The Louvre is a popular museum, and some works, like the Mona Lisa, can attract a crowd of visitors. Here are some tips for enjoying your visit:
- Arrive early or visit in the late afternoon: the museum opens at 9:00 a.m., and on busy days, it's best to enter in the early hours.
- Explore lesser-known sections: while many people head straight to the Mona Lisa, there are less crowded sections like the Islamic art collection and the Oriental antiquities section that are worth visiting.
- Friday evening visit: the Louvre is open until 9:45 p.m. every Friday, offering a more tranquil and intimate atmosphere.
