First constructed as a fortress on the orders of King Philippe-Auguste at the end of the 12th century, the Louvre soon became the main residence of the kings of France. In 1791, a museum was created in the palace and, in 1981, renovation was begun to incorporate the Richelieu wing into the museum and add the Pyramide, a world-recognized landmark. With the opening of the Grand Louvre, an additional 22,000 square meters of space became available. The museums collections are a combination of works originally belonging to the kings of France since Francois I and those augmented by numerous donations and acquisitions, making the Louvre one of the most comprehensive museums in the world.
Cour Napoleonplace du Carrousel75001 ParisPhone: 33 1 40 20 51 51
