I’m in Paris! And one of my first must-see attractions on the list is a visit to one of the world’s biggest museums, the Louvre Museum. Housed in the magnificent Louvre Palace, it is located on the Right Bank of the Seine in the 1st arrondissement (district). With more than 8 million visitors each year, the Louvre is the world’s most visited museum. That fact alone made me realize I had to pull some tricks to avoid the never-ending lines. Sure enough, I had quickly found my magic wond. I went along my aunt and uncle, Parisians themselves, who knew everything about Paris, including a side entrance and the best shortcuts.
Once a fortified palace that was the home to the kings of France, the Louvre is renowned for some of the finest pieces of art in the world, including the Wings of Victory, Venus de Milo and the Mona Lisa. Needless to say it’s not easy to catch a glimpse of them. You have to have some serious push and shove skills, in order to get a proper look, let alone a picture! The reason my Mona Lisa snapshot is somewhat blurry is because I had to zoom in until I could zoom in no more, from a significant distance. There is a protective chain keeping visitors several feet away, which makes photography somewhat challenging.
Walking towards the second most renowded piece of art – the Wings of Victory statue – I marveled at the ornate ceiling and the splendid views seen from the Louvre windows. There is no question about it – Europe is the most elegant, sophisticated continent – but the sumptuous charm you find in Paris, and in particular at the Louvre, is unmatched.
The lines at the Wings of Victory statue (formaly known as Winged Victory of Samothrace) were equally perplexing, but well worth it. The Hellenistic work of art truly exudes with “grandeur and theatricality.”
After countless paintings, statues and artifacts that I can not even remember, it was über cool to see the Louvre triangle, this time upside down. The Louvre is not only rich with thousands of years of ancient treasures, but also a place for groundbreaking modern structures. It was certainly refreshing to my eyes and a perfect note to end my unforgettable visit to the Louvre …
I managed to see the most important pieces in just about three hours, only thanks to my aunt and uncle that were gracious enough to give me the full guided experience; otherwise, I would suggest you prepare ahead: bring a guide, wear comfortable shoes and make sure you have a good breakfast. Lots of patience won’t hurt you either. Next stop: Eiffel Tower!
