The Louvre: Stepping into Regality, Unveiling the Magnificent Museum

Greetings, fellow adventurers, history buffs, and art enthusiasts! Join us as we unveil the grandeur of the world's largest and most visited museum - the Louvre Museum. Once a royal palace and the court of kings, today, it stands as a testament to centuries of artistic prowess and historical grandeur. This opulent treasure trove beckons us with its iconic glass pyramid and promises to sweep us off our feet with its breathtaking collections.

I have a thing for history, if you haven’t of guessed, and the pure detail and effort that went into every little detail of this palace, was genuinely such a breathtaking moment to witness

Our sojourn will be filled with intrigue as we delve into the rich tapestry of history that adorns the museum's venerable walls. Prepare to rub shoulders with the who's who of the art world - yes, even Mona Lisa graces us with her enigmatic smile here.

We'll explore the new facets of the museum that keep it pulsating with life, while also reveling in the timeless classics that lend the Louvre its immortal charm. And what's a royal adventure without the accompanying indulgences? From the quaint bistros to the luxe hotels nearby, we've got it all covered for your royal sojourn in Paris.

The palace itself, with its iconic pyramids that look down into the museum, is really a testament to the modernisation of the palace, and it’s worked fantastically.

But remember, this is no ordinary tour. This is the Louvre through the eyes of Calum and myself. We've got our take on this regal experience, the things that made us go "Ooh La La," and yes, some royal tea to spill. So, brace yourself for an extravagant journey through time, art, and everything in between.

Stay tuned, dear readers, because the opulence has only just begun. Prepare to be wowed, wooed, and whisked away into the royal world of the Louvre. Allons-y, shall we?

And before even arriving to the Louvre, you see the grand river Seine

Chronicles from the Canvas Citadel: How the Louvre Transformed from a Palace to an Economic Powerhouse

A drawing dating all the way back to 1200! Of the original Lovre castle!

Bonjour, mes amis! Allow me to take you on a journey through time, tracing the strokes of history that paint the vibrant canvas of the Louvre Museum. Once a fortress protecting the margins of Paris, the Louvre blossomed under the reign of the kings into a stunning Renaissance palace, before becoming the museum we know today. Ah, the tales these walls could tell!

Did you know the art collection started with Francis I, whose passion for art led him to accumulate works by the greats like Michelangelo and Raphael? And how could we forget the mesmerizing Mona Lisa, a treasure that has had a rather nomadic existence before finally settling in the Louvre.

Dating all the way back to the 17th century, the Louvre really stood out as a piece of history from the beginning, from royals or high class, it was a marvel

Our Louvre hasn't just been a treasure trove of art, oh non! It's also been a healing sanctuary - Henry IV, in all his divine belief, used to perform the 'royal touch' to cure the sick within its walls. Isn't that a fascinating snippet of history?

Through centuries, the Louvre grew with the city, expanding under various monarchs who added to its architecture and its collection. Even the artists of the time lived and worked here, infusing it with their creative energy.

I think we all know who this is! The infamous Mona Lisa painting, not originally at the Louvre, but now entrances millions of tourists a year!

However, it was during the tumultuous times of the French Revolution that the Louvre underwent a monumental transformation, becoming a public museum. What an impact it had on our beloved Paris! The revolutionary government, inspired by Enlightenment principles, introduced this grand institution to the public. Notwithstanding a few hiccups, including a temporary closure due to structural issues and the renaming to Musée Napoléon under Napoleon, the Louvre grew steadily.

Yet, its journey was far from smooth. From Napoleon's pillaging conquests, adding to the museum's collection, to the turbulent times of World War II when the Nazis took over the nearly-empty museum, the Louvre bore witness to it all.

In the 16th century, however, Francis I demolished the original fortress and rebuilt the Louvre as a Renaissance-style royal residence. It continued to house the royal family until 1682 when Louis XIV built the Palace of Versailles.

Fast forward to 1993, marking the Louvre's 200th year as a museum, a significant expansion took place - the erstwhile finance ministry wing was incorporated into the museum, culminating its transformation into a full-fledged museum.

As a museum, the Louvre itself boats some of the worlds incredible art, something for everyone to really delve into

The most iconic addition, however, was the introduction of the I.M. Pei's Pyramid in 1988. Not only did it lend a modern edge to the classic Louvre facade, but it also streamlined the museum, providing a singular entrance that linked the three buildings. Though it received mixed reviews initially, over time, it's become a symbol of Paris, recognizable around the world.

The metamorphosis of the Louvre from a royal palace to a world-renowned museum has had a profound impact on Paris and the French economy. It has drawn countless tourists and art enthusiasts to the city, stimulating the economy and cementing Paris's reputation as a hub of art and culture.

Now a museum, the once royal palace has so much history! And also, amazing photo merci

While the transformation wasn't without its challenges and criticism, the modernisation has allowed the Louvre to endure as a timeless testament to art and history. Sure, it may have lost some of its royal charm in the process, but isn't it wonderful how it has opened its doors to millions, sharing the wealth of art and history it houses?

The Louvre - it's not just a museum; it's a chapter of history etched in stone, a rendezvous point of the past and the present. And so, it continues to enchant us, inviting us to get lost in its hallowed halls and re-emerge, enriched with tales from a bygone era. Ah, quel endroit merveilleux!

The Louvre complex as seen from Tour Montparnasse, Paris

The Artistic Arcanum: A Glimpse into the Heart of the Louvre

Welcome, my fellow art aficionados, to the breathtaking heart of the Louvre! Now, where does one begin in this treasure trove of human creativity? Naturally, with our leading lady - the elusive, captivating 'Mona Lisa'. Despite her petite size, Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece draws crowds like no other, her enigmatic smile enchanting millions.

Not the closest picture, but here she is, in all her small, beauty

But wait, there's so much more! Wander down the grand hallways and you'll come face to face with the 'Venus de Milo', an enchanting sculpture embodying the ideal of Greek beauty. Not far off, you can't miss the imposing 'Winged Victory of Samothrace', an exquisite embodiment of a Greek goddess.

Left: The stunning Venus de Milo, there is something about Ancient Greece, which I studied as an A-Level student by the way, that captivates you, the missing arms, really do add to it! Right: I felt the black and white for these made them pop more, here we have the magical Winged Victory of Samothrace

Venture into the Renaissance era and behold the visual symphony of Raphael's 'Baldassare Castiglione'. As you peruse the Louvre's impressive collection of Egyptian antiquities, 'The Seated Scribe' certainly stands out, an eerily lifelike representation of ancient wisdom.

Left: The Renaissance era, something that my living room might as well look like, put their all into art and revolution, and you can just see in the pure detail and emotion of this famous painting, Raphael's 'Baldassare Castiglione. As not a massive art buff, even I was forever endowed Right: Please go and look! It’s worth it, but also Egyptian history belongs to its rightful owners.

Now, these are just the tip of the iceberg, the star-studded highlights if you will. The Louvre holds countless more artistic gems, each with a unique tale to tell. So, whether you're an art enthusiast or a curious wanderer, the Louvre has a fascinating world waiting to be discovered. Happy exploring!

An Honest Verdict: The Majestic Marvel and Maddening Muddle of the Louvre

Me outside the Louvre and one of its many lovely pyramids that look down!

Right folks, let's strip away the rose-tinted glasses and dive headfirst into the raw truth of the Louvre experience. I've asked a bunch of my buddies, relatives, and even myself, and it's clear that there's a wide range of experiences tied to this iconic museum.

Despite going on a bit of a cloudy day, the Eiffel Tower all foggy gives me goosebumps. Luckily, it was clear!

On one hand, you've got those who'll tell you it's the zenith of human artistic achievement. They'll wax lyrical about the awe-inspiring array of Old Masters, the 'Mona Lisa' leading the pack, of course. Even the 'overrated' tag couldn't dampen the experience for some of them. It's huge, it's stylish, it's jam-packed with masterpieces from floor to ceiling - and that's without even considering the VIPs like 'La Gioconda.' Some reckon it even beats the British Museum. If they lived in Paris, they'd probably be wandering those echoing halls every other day.

Yet, every coin has its flip side. For some, the Louvre seems more like a bustling Friday evening train station than a serene house of art. Some argue the commercialization has gone a bit over the top. And let's not even get started on those queues - even a Zen master would struggle to keep their cool in those snaking lines. The 'Mona Lisa' - yeah, it's a gem, but the hectic hustle and bustle around it can make you feel like you're in a stampede rather than an art exhibit. Some of my folks had to squint at it from a distance, barely getting a chance to soak in its famed mystery.

Left: Just looking up in one of the Louvres' many rooms can take your breath away, but, as they say, is it really worth it when you're hungry, hot and sweaty? That’s up to you! Right: Managing to capture this, and we’ve all seen this before, (Coldplay, Viva La Vida) its stunning, and I have to say I really can appreciate art like this, but maybe not in a massive que

Our very own experience, well, let's just say it's been a mixed bag. The architecture of the Louvre is a sight to behold, and that alone could probably justify a visit. But the insides, hmmm, that's where the beauty gets a bit muddled. The prices are steep, and then there's the wait. Four hours of your life whittled away in a queue doesn't really scream 'holiday joy,' does it? If you're a busy bee, got a couple of youngsters to keep happy, or don't quite get the fuss about art, the Louvre might feel more like a chore than a charming experience. As for us, well, would we go again? Probably not. We appreciate the glory of history it houses, but the bustling crowds and the stuffy rooms don't quite hit the mark. A quick YouTube virtual tour might be more our speed next time.

Once again, Calum and I went for it, immersed in art and travel, romance and ready to go!

So there you have it, folks - the majestic marvel and maddening middle of the Louvre, laid bare. Your experience might end up being somewhere in between. Either way, if you're headed there, remember to pack an extra dose of patience along with your sense of wonder. You might need it!

A Foodie's Field Guide: Savory Sojourns Near The Louvre

Feeling peckish after your grand tour of the Louvre? Well, my friend, you're in luck because the surrounding area is a treasure trove of culinary delights! From the ritzy to the relaxed, there's something for every palate and pocket. Here are my top 5 picks for your post-Louvre refueling:

Le Meurice Alain Ducasse

228 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France | 0.3 miles from Louvre Museum

When we're talking high class, we've gotta start with Le Meurice Alain Ducasse. A two-Michelin-star restaurant, this place is the epitome of luxury. Prepare to be dazzled by the lavish interiors and the mouth-watering French cuisine crafted by world-renowned chef Alain Ducasse. As for prices, a meal here can set you back anywhere from €100 to €400 per person. This is the kind of place you'd pick for a special occasion or a fancy treat. You can find more details: Le Meurice Alain Ducasse.

Left: Really do look at the details! This is from the restaurant's site! Right: Only a 9 minute walk away, this elegant eatery exudes magic, and worth it!

Le Fumoir

6 Rue de l'Amiral de Coligny, 75001 Paris, France | 0.1 miles from Louvre Museum

Now, onto a more moderately priced spot, Le Fumoir. Just a stone's throw away from the Louvre, it boasts a cozy interior with a vintage charm that is utterly captivating. Known for its variety of French and European dishes, a meal here ranges from €20-€40 per person. It's an ideal stop for brunch, lunch, or an intimate dinner. Find out more about it: Le Fumoir.

Less than a minute away, this gorgeous high class cafe is so worth it, and the view!

Café Marly

93 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France | 0.05 miles from Louvre Museum

Here's one for those looking for an iconic Parisian café experience. Café Marly, overlooking the Louvre's pyramids, serves classic French fare in a chic setting. It's slightly on the expensive side with main dishes ranging between €20-€35, but the location and view alone are worth it! More about it can be found: Café Marly

Left: Another one minute away venture, I cannot express how yes these may be a bit pricey, but imagine watching the Palace and the museum light up at night, YES Right: Yep, that's the view from Cafe Marly, wow!This picture is from the restaurant's website, lovely!

Pizza Chic

13 Rue de Mézières, 75006 Paris, France | 1.1 miles from Louvre Museum

A fan of Italian cuisine? Well, Pizza Chic is your spot! It's a little further away but worth the journey. Their pizzas, which are said to be some of the best in Paris, range from €12-€20. The ambience is casual and relaxed, making it a perfect family-friendly option. Check them out: Pizza Chic

Left: This is from their website, and wow, looks yummy! Right: Now yes, it is a 17 minute walk away, but, if you like pizza and don’t mind a nice stroll, day or night, I highly recommend it!

Kosher Grill

7 Rue des Bourdonnais, 75001 Paris, France | 0.5 miles from Louvre Museum

Finally, for those looking for a tasty, affordable bite, I recommend Kosher Grill. Serving up scrumptious Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes, you can grab a full meal here for around €10-€15. It's a bit of a hidden gem with a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for a quick, satisfying refuel after your museum exploration. You can find more about them: Kosher Grill

A six minute walk away, so worth it! Do be careful though, the streets look a bit…. Dodgy.

And there you have it, folks! From haute cuisine to heavenly comfort food, there's something to satiate every post-Louvre appetite. Bon appétit!

Parisian Slumbers: Top 5 Hotels to Rest and Recharge Near the Louvre

Ritz Paris

15 Place Vendôme, 75001 Paris, France

Visit the Ritz Paris website

Situated only a 13-minute walk from the Louvre, the legendary Ritz Paris oozes opulence and history. Having accommodated the likes of Coco Chanel and Ernest Hemingway, the hotel offers a royal experience. Each room is exquisitely furnished, promising comfort beyond imagination. Yes, it's pricey (rooms start at around €900 per night), but the immaculate service, luxurious Spa Chanel, and exceptional dining options justify the splurge. Travelers commend the Ritz for its timeless elegance and world-class service, making it a true jewel of Parisian hospitality.

Less than 15 minutes away, this hotel is known for its hospitality, and for the upper class, so, all of us right?

Hotel Therese

5-7 Rue Thérèse, 75001 Paris, France

Visit the Hotel Therese website

Just a 10-minute walk to the Louvre, this hotel strikes a fine balance between luxury and affordability. With an intimate and chic Parisian charm, Hotel Therese offers rooms from €200 per night. Guests adore the stylish rooms, the complimentary afternoon tea, and the helpful concierge service. The hotel's quiet location, nestled in a vibrant neighborhood, also wins a lot of brownie points!

Left: Also known as the club room, and as the website calls it, a highly Parisian refinement Right: Only a 7 minute walk away, look above and see all of Paris’s history before you go to sleep!

Hôtel Crayon Rouge

25 Rue du Bouloi, 75001 Paris, France

Visit the Hôtel Crayon Rouge website

An 8-minute walk from the museum, Hotel Crayon Rouge is a budget-friendly boutique hotel starting at about €150 per night. It's trendy and quirky, with uniquely decorated rooms and a wine bar to unwind after a day of exploration. Visitors love the friendly staff and the hotel's eclectic decor, making it a vibrant, colorful place to rest.

Left: For Paris, 150 euros per night is a steal, and it possesses a unique vibe to it! Right: For only a 7 minute walk away, it’s a steal and nothing less people!

Hôtel du Louvre

Place André Malraux, 75001 Paris, France

Visit the Hôtel du Louvre website

Left: Not the literal fact you can see the Louvre from your bedroom, what a dream! Right: I know it says 2 minutes walk, but if I can see it from my hotel room, is it really

Right across from the Louvre, this Hyatt property merges convenience, comfort, and affordability starting around €250 per night. The rooms are spacious, with elegant decor that pays tribute to various artists. The hotel also offers a renowned restaurant and a chic cocktail bar. Guests rave about the spectacular views of the museum and the top-notch service.

Hôtel Regina Louvre

2 Place des Pyramides, 75001 Paris, France

Visit the Hôtel Regina Louvre website

Left: So don’t freak out but I think this is the most romantic hotel in Paris, is that the EIFFEL TOWER in the background?! Right: It really is 5 minutes, wow, and I have to say it, worth the price if it’s that close to some of Paris’s hotspots!

Less than a 5-minute walk from the Louvre, the hotel offers rooms from around €300 per night. This historic hotel provides an elegant base for your Parisian adventure with well-appointed rooms and a popular brasserie. It's a hit among guests for its unbeatable location, tastefully furnished rooms, and the cordiality of its staff.

Each of these accommodations offers a unique experience, giving you the opportunity to pick according to your taste and budget. Remember, when it comes to choosing a hotel, the best pick is always the one that makes you feel right at home in the city of lights!

Fashion Meets Fine Art: The Louvre's Transformation Into a Couture Capital

Did you know that beneath the grand arches and illustrious paintings, the Louvre has transformed into a coveted stage for fashion's finest? Yes, darling, the world's largest art museum is not just about antiquities anymore! In recent years, the Louvre has become a dazzling backdrop for prestigious fashion shows. Its stunning architecture lends an unforgettable backdrop that simply screams 'haute couture.'

Major fashion powerhouses like Louis Vuitton have graced the palace's ornate halls with their innovative designs and illustrious models. Remember when Naomi Campbell strutted down the runway during the Louis Vuitton Fall/Winter 2019 show? Or when Kendall Jenner's ethereal walk graced the Court Carrée for the Spring/Summer 2020 show? Magnifique!

I’ve actually never seen a woman this stunning

Celebrity sightings are as common as the artwork. A-listers from Emma Stone to Cate Blanchett have been spotted in the front row, gazing at the collections that unravel against the backdrop of centuries-old art.

In a seamless blend of old and new, the Louvre is not just a keeper of history, but a trendsetter in the world of high fashion. The fusion of art, history, and fashion adds a whole new layer of magic to this iconic landmark. So, the next time you're thinking about the Louvre, remember it's not just about Mona Lisa's mysterious smile - it's also about the glitz and glamor of the fashion world!

Not to mention Miss Bella Hadid right before! Now, I don’t agree with who Louis Vuitton has partnered with, controversial at best, but we cannot deny that Bella is beautiful.

Le Louvre Unveiled: The Grand Finale of a Historic Masterpiece and Modern Icon

OKKAYY, one more of me, how clever!

In our epic journey exploring the Louvre, we've borne witness to a world of culture, art, and fashion, enveloped in centuries of history. A palace and a museum, an icon and a heartbeat, the Louvre is the quintessential emblem of Parisian allure and prestige, binding the past and the present with unmatched finesse.

One of its many pyramids that are in the old palace courtyard, in which you can look down and see the museum!

As we tread through its magnificent corridors, we meet kings of old and artists of repute, a testament to the museum's place in art history. From grand Napoleonic apartments to the timeless gaze of Mona Lisa, the Louvre treasures moments of time that captivate and inspire.

Yet, it's not all old masters and historical artifacts. The Louvre's regal halls now buzz with the energy of contemporary fashion, the runway models as much a spectacle as the art on the walls. We're in an era where Naomi Campbell shares a stage with the 'Venus de Milo,' and Kendall Jenner adds her signature strut to the same corridors walked by Louis XIV. Who'd have thought?

Left: It's something about the people’s craft that we sometimes take for granted, look at each fine detail, I could stay at this all day Right: But, as usual, watch out for the crowds, this wasn’t even everyone!

Still, our journey through the Louvre hasn't been without its thorns. Yes, there are times when the crowd swells and the lines lengthen, sometimes turning a museum visit into a waiting game. It can be overwhelming, even frustrating. It can also be hard on the wallet, from the entry fee to the upscale eateries nearby, not to mention the luxury accommodations within a stone's throw. Paris, it seems, requires a certain resilience of spirit and pocket.

But, does the magic of the Louvre outweigh these inconveniences? That's a question only you can answer. For us, despite the hustle, despite the expense, the Louvre has an undeniable allure that keeps drawing us back. It stands as a testament to human creativity and endurance, a symbol of our undying fascination with beauty and history.

Left: Looking up above everyone, it really is a surreal feeling, and the day brightened up, yay! Right: If you think you can spot it, that’s right! The Arc De Triomphe, the Champs de elyees! All down one road, it takes about an hour and a half to walk, but from point to point, you’re living and walking through history!

So, as we bid adieu to the Louvre for now, we invite you to join us on the final leg of our Parisian adventure. We'll wander through hidden gems and local favorites in our upcoming article, "Paris Off the Beaten Track: Discovering Local Favorites in the City of Love." We promise, it's an exploration you won't want to miss. Until then, au revoir, and may the spirit of the Louvre remain in our hearts, a beacon of artistry and culture.

A farewell, to the stunning palace museum and fountains alike, some beautiful statues all around until you reach almost another monument, Paris is lovely. Rain or shine, night or day.

That's all for this post! If you've visited the Louvre and discovered any hidden treasures or have tips to share, I'd be thrilled to hear about them. If you're in the process of planning a trip and have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out. Assisting fellow travellers is always a pleasure, and I make it a point to respond to every email I receive (sara@sarajourneys.com). Until we meet again, journey safely!

P.S. For those curious to see more, you can find all our travel photos on the SaraJourneysMore Instagram page.