Louvre

The Louvre, officially the Musée du Louvre (French for "Louvre Museum"), is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris, France. It is a central landmark of the city, located on the Right Bank of the Seine River in the 1st arrondissement (district). Nearly 38,000 objects from prehistory to the 21st century are exhibited over an area of 72,735 square meters (782,910 square feet).

The Louvre's history is intertwined with the history of France. Originally built as a fortress in the late 12th century under Philip II, the Louvre was eventually expanded to serve as a royal palace. Charles V was the first monarch to use the Louvre as his primary residence in the 14th century. Throughout the centuries, successive monarchs modified and expanded the palace. In 1682, Louis XIV chose the Palace of Versailles as his residence, leaving the Louvre primarily as a repository to house the royal collection.

During the French Revolution, the National Assembly decreed that the Louvre should be used as a museum to display the nation's masterpieces. It officially opened as a museum on 10 August 1793 with an exhibition of 537 paintings, the majority being royal possessions and confiscated church property.

The Louvre's collection includes works from civilizations and cultures across the globe. It is divided into eight curatorial departments: Egyptian Antiquities; Near Eastern Antiquities; Greek, Etruscan and Roman Antiquities; Islamic Art; Sculpture; Decorative Arts; Paintings; and Prints and Drawings. Among the most famous works housed in the Louvre are the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Code of Hammurabi.

The Louvre Pyramid, a large glass and metal pyramid designed by architect I. M. Pei, was added to the Louvre's courtyard in 1989. It serves as the main entrance to the museum and has become a recognizable symbol of the Louvre.

The Louvre is one of the most visited museums in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. Its vast collection and historical significance make it a prominent center for art and culture.