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Top Exhibits at the
Louvre in Paris, France
The Louvre is not just a museum—it’s a global icon of art, history, and culture. Located in the heart of Paris, France along the River Seine, the Louvre began its life as a medieval fortress in the late 12th century before transforming into a royal palace and, eventually, the world’s most visited museum. Since opening as a public museum in 1793, it has grown into a treasure house of masterpieces that span thousands of years and countless civilizations.
The Louvre’s significance in the art world is unmatched. Home to a collection that includes over 35,000 works of art covering everything from ancient Egyptian relics to Renaissance paintings and modern decorative arts. For artists, historians, and travelers alike, the Louvre represents the very heart of Europe’s artistic heritage and continues to inspire millions with its sheer scale and diversity.
Today, the Louvre stands as the most popular museum in the world, drawing nearly 10 million visitors annually in recent years. Its iconic glass pyramid entrance has become a symbol of Paris itself, welcoming travelers eager to explore its vast galleries. Whether you’re an art lover or a curious first-time visitor, the Louvre offers an unforgettable journey through human creativity and cultural history.
The Top Exhibits you need to see at the Louvre
Mona Lisa
Arguably the most famous painting in the world, the Mona Lisa draws millions every year. Painted by Leonardo da Vinci in the early 16th century, it’s renowned for the subject’s enigmatic expression—neither a smile nor a frown, but something in between that seems to change as you look. The use of sfumato (a soft blending of colors and tones) gives the portrait a lifelike quality that was revolutionary in its time. Its fame skyrocketed after it was stolen in 1911 and later recovered, cementing its status as a global icon. Though surprisingly small at just 30 x 20 inches, it commands the room in the Denon Wing.
Liberty Leading the People
Painted in 1830 by Eugène Delacroix, this large-scale canvas commemorates the July Revolution in France, when citizens rose against King Charles X. Liberty is personified as a robust, bare-breasted woman carrying the tricolor flag and urging Parisians forward. Around her are figures from different classes—students, workers, even a young boy—symbolizing unity in the fight for freedom. The painting has since become a universal emblem of resistance and democracy, with echoes of it appearing in literature, film, and even music album covers.
Venus de Milo
Discovered on the island of Milos in 1820, the Venus de Milo is a masterpiece of ancient Greek sculpture, dating back to around 100 BCE. Scholars generally agree it depicts Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, though her missing arms have sparked endless debate about her original pose—perhaps holding an apple, a mirror, or drapery. Her flowing drapery and elegant form embody classical ideals of proportion and grace. Today, she remains a timeless symbol of beauty and mystery.
Great Sphinx of Tanis
Carved from pink granite and dating back to around 2600 BCE, this colossal sphinx was discovered in the ruins of Tanis in the Nile Delta. At nearly 26 tons, it’s one of the largest sphinxes outside Egypt. The sphinx combines a lion’s body with a human head, symbolizing both power and wisdom. Its presence in the Louvre’s Egyptian Antiquities collection highlights the breadth of the museum, which preserves not only European treasures but also extraordinary artifacts from the ancient world.
Victoire de Samothrace/Winged Victory of Samothrace
This dramatic marble sculpture, created around the 2nd century BCE, represents Nike, the goddess of victory. Found in pieces on the island of Samothrace and reassembled in the 19th century, the statue is remarkable for its sense of movement—the way the goddess’s robes seem to billow in the wind as she lands on the prow of a ship. Placed high on the Daru staircase, she feels almost alive, a triumphant presence that greets visitors with breathtaking power. Many consider her one of the most emotionally stirring works in the Louvre.
The Coronation of Napoleon
Completed in 1807, this monumental work spans over 600 square feet and depicts the coronation ceremony of Napoleon Bonaparte at Notre Dame Cathedral in 1804. The scene is charged with political drama: instead of being crowned by the Pope, Napoleon famously crowned himself, declaring his authority came from no one but himself. Jacques-Louis David’s painting captures every detail with precision, from the glittering regalia to the expressions of the crowd. Standing before it feels like being transported into history, with the grandeur and ego of empire on full display.
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Hidden Gems at the Louvre
While the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo get most of the attention, the Louvre is full of treasures that many visitors overlook. Exploring a few of these hidden gems not only helps you escape the crowds, but also gives you a richer experience of the museum’s vast collection.
Lesser-Known Highlights
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The Lamassu of Mesopotamia – These colossal winged bulls with human heads once guarded Assyrian palaces. Their sheer size and intricate carvings make them unforgettable.
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Medieval Louvre Foundations – Deep in the lower levels of the museum, you can walk among the original stone walls of the medieval fortress that once stood on the site. It’s like stepping back into Paris’s early history.
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Napoleon III Apartments – Tucked away in the Richelieu Wing, these opulent 19th-century rooms are dripping with chandeliers, velvet, and gilded furniture. A completely different vibe from the galleries, they show the Louvre’s palace past.
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The Galerie d’Apollon – This dazzling gallery is decorated with golden ceilings and houses the French Crown Jewels. It’s as jaw-dropping as Versailles, but often far less crowded.
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Psyche Revived by Cupid’s Kiss – Antonio Canova’s marble masterpiece captures a moment of tender romance. A must for lovers of sculpture.
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The Islamic Art Collection – An airy, modern space beneath a sweeping glass roof, showcasing centuries of art from across the Islamic world—beautifully displayed and often less busy.
Why Explore Beyond the Icons?
Taking time to wander off the main path lets you experience the Louvre’s incredible range. From ancient civilizations to decorative arts and architecture, these quieter corners reveal just how much more the museum holds. Plus, you’ll get a welcome break from the bustle around the most famous works.
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