Private van transfer and visit Palais du Louvre in Paris

In-depth history and visitor’s guide to the Louvre in Paris

The construction of the Louvre, located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris on the Place André Malraux, began in 1190 under the reign of King Philippe Auguste and concluded in 1202. This grand palace served as the dwelling place of the Kings of France for several centuries, witnessing numerous events that have shaped France’s history.

The Palais du Louvre stands as a significant fortress through several eras of history. It features a rectangular enclosure measuring 78 meters in length and 72 meters in width, and is graced with 10 towers and a circular tower. The palace, sprawling over an area of not less than 135,000 square meters, is the largest of its kind in Europe. Additionally, it is recognized as the most visited cultural center in France.

King Philippe Auguste initiated the construction of a moat, which was later destroyed by King Francis I in the sixteenth century. A new palace was erected on the site of the old castle under the direction of architect Pierre Lescot. The construction continued under successive kings, with each ruler leaving his unique imprint on this architectural marvel. The famous colonnade of the Louvre was designed by architect Claude Perrault, while the iconic glass pyramid in the courtyard of Napoleon was the brainchild of architect IM Pei, executed under the initiative of President François Mitterrand.

The Louvre Palace showcases several courtyards adorned with impressive sculptures. Moreover, remnants of the medieval foundations are still visible in the basement of the museum, offering a glimpse into the palace’s historical depth. The interior of the palace holds centuries’ worth of art masterpieces. The forum is held up by four awe-inspiring caryatids statues created in 1550. Intricate carvings embellish the ceilings and paneling down each part of the palace, exuding a sense of grandeur and magnificence.