Just one trip is not enough to see the Louvre Museum in France! (Image Source: Instagram)
Lifestyle Desk, New Delhi. Do you know where the world's largest and famous museum is? Let us tell you, this is the 'Louvre Museum' located in Paris, the capital of France, which is not only a paradise for art lovers, but it is also home to priceless heritages of human history, culture and civilization. This is why it is counted among the most visited museums in the world.
From fort to palace and then to museum
The history of the Louvre is very exciting. It started as a fort in the 12th century. Over time, it became a grand royal palace of the kings of France. However, the French Revolution of 1789 changed its fortunes. After the Revolution it was decided to open the royal properties to the general public and finally in 1793 the Louvre was established as a public museum.
Glass pyramid is the focus of attraction
The architecture of this museum, a confluence of tradition and modernity, is worth seeing. While its old buildings exemplify the European classical style, a glass pyramid was built here in 1989. This pyramid, designed by the famous architect I.M. Pei, has today become the identity of the Louvre and presents a beautiful combination of modernity and tradition.
Huge collection of amazing artefacts
The Louvre Museum is a world in itself. There are more than 4,80,000 artefacts here, of which about 35,000 are on display for visitors. Here you will find sculptures, jewelery and paintings from the ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman and Etruscan civilizations of Italy. Apart from this, European Renaissance paintings and medieval sculptures also add to the beauty of the place.
Mona Lisa, Venus and historical sculptures
The biggest attraction of this museum is Leonardo da Vinci's world famous painting 'Mona Lisa'. Along with this, there are also historical sculptures like 'Venus de Milo' and 'Winged Victory of Samothrace' made of marble dating back to 200-175 BC. For those interested in history, the Code of Babylonian King Hammurabi is also kept here. At some places you will also get to see glimpses of 'flower carpet' and 'floral art'.
So big that it will take 100 days to travel around
The vastness of the Louvre can be gauged from the fact that its exhibition area is spread over more than 60 thousand square meters. Even if you stop for just 30 seconds to see each object kept here, it will still take you about 100 days to see the entire museum.
When crores of rupees were stolen
An exciting incident is also associated with this historical place. Some time ago, thieves disguised as construction workers committed a major theft here. They broke into the window of the second floor during the day and stole 8 precious pieces of French Crown Jewels kept in the gallery. Let us tell you, the value of these jewelery was estimated in crores of rupees.
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