The Louvre was originally built as a fortress in the 12th century by Phillip II (Philippe Auguste). The building was extended many times to form the Palace it is today. Remnants of the fortress can be found on the lower level.
The Louvre has acquired a vast collection over the years.
Venus de Milo.
Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa.
Botticelli.
It could take a few days to see everything.
Michelangelo.
The building is a wonder itself.
During the French Revolution the Louvre was turned into a public museum.
It was nice seeing the detail of the Ancient Egyptian exhibit. It’s impressive how slight coloring can be seen on some pieces.
Can’t remember what time period these are from. Sometime in the Ancient World and Middle/Near East.
We’d love to come back and spend more time here. The architecture is really wonderful. It was one of our favorite buildings. We enjoyed it more than Versailles.
To read more about the Louvre.
http://www.louvre.fr/en/history-louvre
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Louvre_Palace
Marvelous photos that ‘transported’ me to the Louvre.
Thank You!!!
Wow, great pictures and great information. Your post reminded me that I’d like to visit Paris again. Thanks for the inspiration!
Aw, Thank you. I try to get the facts right but sometimes the info may be incorrect on the internet but when someone points out I’m wrong – I change it. Happened in my Versailles post. I like history so its fun digging things up 🙂