{"id":6319,"date":"2020-02-04T13:56:05","date_gmt":"2020-02-04T13:56:05","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/tiqets-blog-staging.local\/visiting-the-louvre\/"},"modified":"2025-08-30T10:32:28","modified_gmt":"2025-08-30T10:32:28","slug":"visiting-the-louvre","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/visiting-the-louvre\/","title":{"rendered":"Your Guide to Visiting the Louvre","gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"text"}]},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong><em>\u2013<\/em>&nbsp;<em>This post was written by&nbsp;<strong>Mick Murray<\/strong><\/em>&nbsp;<em>\u2013<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Visiting the Louvre for the first time can seem daunting. It\u2019s the largest art museum on the planet, and contains everything from prehistoric statues and Egyptian sarcophagi to the world\u2019s most famous painting \u2013 the Mona Lisa. From all the top highlights to hidden gems, this Louvre guide will give you a full idea of what to see and do at this amazing museum, as well as all the practical information you need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div data-tiqets-widget=\"discovery\" data-cards-layout=\"responsive\" data-content-type=\"product\" data-item_count=\"3\" data-destination-type=\"venue\" data-destination-id=\"124297\" data-partner=\"tiqetsblog\" data-tq-campaign=\"LouvreGuide\"><\/div><script defer=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/widgets.tiqets.com\/loader.js\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-to-see-at-the-louvre-the-highlights\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What to see at the Louvre: the highlights<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are some truly unmissable things to see when visiting the Louvre. Certain works of art have become iconic for a reason. Have you ever been to a place only to miss the most crucial sights? Don\u2019t let it happen again, and make sure you don\u2019t accidentally miss out on some of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/en\/paris-c66746\/louvre-museum-highlights-guided-visit-in-english-p977281\">the Louvre\u2019s biggest highlights<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"1-the-mona-lisa-leonardo-da-vinci\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. The Mona Lisa &#8211; Leonardo da Vinci<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-2-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p> <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12715\" style=\"width: 350px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Leonardo_da_Vinci_-_Mona_Lisa.jpg\" alt=\"\"><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>It\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2009\/10\/11\/arts\/design\/11voge.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">estimated<\/a> that 80% of people come to the Louvre to see the Mona Lisa alone. Approximately 30,000 visitors a day arrive to view this masterpiece, which can lead to some pretty big lines. As you approach the room in which it\u2019s displayed (known as \u2018the Mona Lisa room\u2019), you\u2019ll start noticing the crowds increase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019ll warn you in advance: it\u2019s going to be busy, the painting is going to be smaller than you expect, and you won\u2019t be able to spend an hour closely examining it. With that being said, it\u2019s easily the most famous painting in the world, and do you really want to spend your life not seeing it? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/New-Project-1.png\" alt=\"Location: Denon Wing, 1st floor, room 711\" class=\"wp-image-12860\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"2-venus-de-milo-alexandros-of-antioch\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Venus de Milo &#8211; Alexandros of Antioch<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/shutterstock_1440375947-1.jpg\" alt=\"Venus de Milo, displayed in the Louvre.\" class=\"wp-image-12720\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Venus de Milo &#8211; Alexandros of Antioch<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>This Ancient Greek statue is generally believed to depict Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty \u2013 who the Romans later conveniently decided was theirs, and renamed Venus. It was discovered in the ruined ancient city of Milos (hence the name) in 1820, after originally being sculpted between 130 and 100 BC.<br><br>Some scholars have a hot take, however: it\u2019s not actually Aphrodite, but Amphitrite, a nautical goddess who was worshipped with particular devotion in Milos. In terms of iconic ancient statues, you can\u2019t get much more famous than this one. It even inspired <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=T-2VGJPOJVA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">an episode of The Simpsons<\/a>, over 2,000 years after it was originally created. Now that\u2019s some serious cultural longevity.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/New-Project-2.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12868\" style=\"width:315px;height:105px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 id=\"3-liberty-leading-the-people-eugene-delacroix\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Liberty Leading the People &#8211; Eug\u00e8ne Delacroix<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Eug\u00e8ne_Delacroix_-_Liberty_Leading_the_People_28th_July_1830_-_WGA6177.jpg?fit=1024%2C843&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Liberty Leading the People by Eug\u00e8ne Delacroix, displayed in the Louvre.\" class=\"wp-image-12722\" style=\"width:1024px;height:843px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Liberty Leading the People &#8211; Eug\u00e8ne Delacroix<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s a reason we tend to think of \u2018Lady Liberty\u2019, and it\u2019s not New York\u2019s iconic green statue. This painting by Delacroix shows liberty personified as Marianne \u2013 basically the human form of the Republic of France itself.<br><br>It\u2019s one of the earliest depictions of this now-ubiquitous concept, and was a direct inspiration for Fr\u00e9d\u00e9ric Auguste Bartholdi&#8217;s famous Statue of Liberty. There\u2019s no greater artistic representation of the French Revolution, which is also why it had such a controversial start to life.<br><br>Despite being a crowning achievement of the greatest Romantic painter of the time, it ended up spending years hidden in an attic by the government for fear of inspiring riots and \u2013 who could have predicted it \u2013 revolution. Fun fact: originally it was going to be displayed in the French throne room, as a friendly reminder to the king of what might happen if he fails to remember some core ideas like \u2018libert\u00e9, \u00e9galit\u00e9, fraternit\u00e9\u2019.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/New-Project-3.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12870\" style=\"width:311px;height:104px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 id=\"4-the-raft-of-the-medusa-theodore-gericault\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. The Raft of the Medusa &#8211; Th\u00e9odore G\u00e9ricault<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/1582px-JEAN_LOUIS_TH\u00c9ODORE_G\u00c9RICAULT_-_La_Balsa_de_la_Medusa_Museo_del_Louvre_1818-19.jpg?fit=1024%2C699&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Raft of the Medusa by Th\u00e9odore G\u00e9ricault.\" class=\"wp-image-12731\" style=\"width:1024px;height:699px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>The Raft of the Medusa &#8211; Th\u00e9odore G\u00e9ricault<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Displayed in close proximity to Liberty Leading the People, this iconic painting is often seen as the pinnacle of French Romanticism. Based on a true event (a shipwreck which caused the death of over 100 sailors), Th\u00e9odore G\u00e9ricault\u2019s painting shows the depths of despair that the survivors \u2013 desperately clinging to a life raft \u2013 resorted to.<br><br>The Raft of the Medusa shows the effects of starvation, dehydration, and cannibalism in gruesomely realistic detail. Even more gruesome when you consider the extent to which the artist researched his topic, as he visited hospitals and morgues to study the deathly pallor of the dying and deceased in order to represent it in his work. As you might have guessed, the painting received lavish praise as well as stern condemnation upon its reception, but has since become one of the legendary staples of French art.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/New-Project-3.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12870\" style=\"width:311px;height:104px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 id=\"5-winged-victory-of-samothrace\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Winged Victory of Samothrace<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/shutterstock_1510476833.jpg\" alt=\"Winged Victory of Samothrace\" class=\"wp-image-12733\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Winged Victory of Samothrace<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>As you begin to ascend the staircase, you might start hearing murmured \u201c<em>wow<\/em>\u201ds and the sound of camera shutters doing overtime. Why\u2019s that? No big deal, only one of the most spectacular ancient Greek statues ever created. Winged Victory takes pride of place in the Louvre for a reason, and can be admired (and photographed) from plenty of different angles.<br><br>It depicts Nike, the Greek goddess of victory, and was most likely created to celebrate a military success. Standing almost 2.5 meters high, just over 8 feet, you can almost see the trail of wind rushing in her wake. If you\u2019re visiting the Louvre for the highlights, this one is unmissable.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/New-Project-5.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12876\" style=\"width:320px;height:107px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 id=\"6-psyche-revived-by-cupids-kiss-antonio-canova\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Psyche Revived by Cupid\u2019s Kiss &#8211; Antonio Canova<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/IMG_0179.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"Psyche Revived by Cupid's Kiss, a statue by Antonio Canova\" class=\"wp-image-12782\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Psyche Revived by Cupid\u2019s Kiss &#8211; Antonio Canova<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>While undeniably one of the Louvre\u2019s highlights, this intricate and complex statue by Canova could also go under \u2018hidden gems\u2019 depending on who you ask. It generally doesn\u2019t draw the crowds that other masterpieces like the Mona Lisa or Venus de Milo do (if you\u2019re lucky, you might even be the only one admiring it), but over the years this depiction of two mythological lovers has become emblematic of romance, passion, and devotion. The statue is intended to be viewed from several different perspectives, revealing something new every time \u2013 so make sure to walk around and take it in from multiple angles!<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/New-Project-6.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12878\" style=\"width:327px;height:109px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 id=\"7-the-law-code-of-hammurabi\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>7. The Law Code of Hammurabi<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-2-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p> <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12739\" style=\"width: 350px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/shutterstock_32989780.jpg\" alt=\"The Law Code of Hammurabi\"><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><br>This imposing basalt stele, full of ancient symbols and laws, is unmissable for anyone with an interest in the past. King Hammurabi of Babylon is one of history\u2019s most famous rulers, and this object represents what he claimed was his divine right to rule \u2013 having received the blessing of the sun god Shamash.<br><br>It\u2019s one of the earliest examples of a legal text, and might well have been crucial in the formalizing of written laws. Look at it and imagine how it must have felt to live thousands of years ago, seeing this huge dark monolith telling the story of how your ruler spoke to the sun god himself. Pretty sweet!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/New-Project-7.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12880\" style=\"width:327px\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><br><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"8-the-louvre-pyramid-im-pei\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>8. The Louvre Pyramid &#8211; I.M. Pei<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/photo-1455036159243-88022c420fdb.jpg\" alt=\"The iconic Louvre Pyramid at night.\" class=\"wp-image-12743\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>The Louvre Pyramid &#8211; I.M. Pei<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Architecture can be considered a form of art, especially when it\u2019s as spectacular as the late I.M. Pei\u2019s pyramid. Despite the Louvre being located in a Renaissance-style palace, most people will immediately think of the glass pyramid in the courtyard. It was completed in 1989, to the great dismay of some local Parisians \u2013 many saw it as too modern, incongruous, and bizarre. Since then, even the most fervent opposition has been won over (for the most part), and the Louvre\u2019s pyramid is now as iconic as the Eiffel Tower. The best part? You literally can\u2019t miss it \u2013 it\u2019s the main entrance to the museum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-to-see-at-the-louvre-the-hidden-gems\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What to see at the Louvre: the hidden gems<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and while paintings like the Mona Lisa generally become famous for a reason, there are plenty of incredible things in the Louvre that don\u2019t get nearly as much attention as they deserve. Here are some lesser-known treasures for you to discover during your Louvre visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"9-the-medieval-louvre-pavillon-de-lhorloge\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>9. The medieval Louvre | Pavillon de l\u2019Horloge<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/horloge.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"The old medieval walls of the Louvre, found in the Pavillon de l\u2019Horloge.\" class=\"wp-image-12784\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>The medieval Louvre | Pavillon de l\u2019Horloge<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Below the first floor, you\u2019ll find the oldest part of the Louvre, dating back to medieval times. Transport yourself back to 1190, as King Philip II prepares to leave for the Third Crusade. Scarred by his defeat to Richard Lionheart, in which he lost his sacred archives, the king realized he needed to make sure the city was safe from the English in his absence \u2013 and was likely also motivated by an earlier Viking invasion that came all-too-close to successfully conquering the French capital. The solution? Build an insurmountable castle right next to the Seine. The Louvre Castle.<br><br>Despite the hyper-modernity of the pyramid and everyone snapping selfies with the sphinx, it\u2019s easy to feel disoriented for a second as the centuries seem to roll back while walking around here. Seeing the ancient underground walls and remnants of the castle built to defend Paris between 1190 and 1215 is a humbling experience, and makes you realize just how long this place has been around.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/New-Project-8.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12882\" style=\"width:318px;height:106px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 id=\"10-the-intervention-of-the-sabine-women-jacqueslouis-david\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>10. The Intervention of the Sabine Women &#8211; Jacques-Louis David<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/F0440_Louvre_JL_David_Sabines_INV3691_rwk.jpg?fit=1024%2C767&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Intervention of the Sabine Women by Jacques-Louis David\" class=\"wp-image-12747\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>The Intervention of the Sabine Women &#8211; Jacques-Louis David<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>This 1799 painting by Jacques-Louis David isn\u2019t one of the world\u2019s most iconic works of art, but perhaps it should be. Imprisoned during an especially volatile period of French history full of terror, executions, and revolution, the painting was intended to encourage reconciliation and understanding, representing the triumph of love over hatred and warfare. It shows the Sabine women in the middle of the action, separating warring factions, while others scramble to rescue infants and children from the battle. As relevant today as it was back in the 18th century, it\u2019s visually striking and open to plenty of new modern interpretations.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/New-Project-9.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12883\" style=\"width:332px;height:111px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 id=\"11-a-forest-floor-with-snakes-and-butterflies-otto-marseus-van-schrieck\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>11<\/strong>. <strong>A Forest Floor with Snakes and Butterflies &#8211; Otto Marseus van Schrieck<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-2-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p> <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12748\" style=\"width: 350px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Otto_Marseus_van_Schrieck_-_Serpents_et_papillons_dans_un_sous-bois_1670.jpg\" alt=\"A Forest Floor with Snakes and Butterflies by Dutch painter Otto Marseus van Schrieck\"><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p> Potentially the most obscure artwork in this guide, this hidden gem won\u2019t be making many top 10 lists \u2013 but there\u2019s a reason it\u2019s being displayed at the Louvre. Created by Dutch painter Otto Marseus van Schrieck in 1670, the combination of snakes and butterflies hovering around the undergrowth in the woods immediately draws the eye of visitors who come across it.<br><br>The striking eyes and facial features of the serpents add an ominous undertone to this darkly coloured painting, and the contrast of beauty and darkness is enough to captivate anyone who gives it more than a passing glance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/New-Project-10.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12884\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"12-portrait-of-the-artist-with-a-mocking-face-joseph-ducreux\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>12. Portrait of the Artist with a Mocking Face &#8211; Joseph Ducreux<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-2-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p> <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12755\" style=\"width: 350px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/20120101182619Ducreux1.jpg\" alt=\"Portrait of the Artist with a Mocking Face by Joseph Ducreux, a famous French image that has recently become an internet meme.\"><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p> You might not recognize Joseph Ducreux\u2019s name, but there\u2019s a chance you\u2019ll recognize his face. Having risen to some prominence on the internet multiple centuries after his death, Ducreux\u2019s entertaining self-portrait has gained a new appeal in 21st-century meme format.<br><br>Seeing it on display, you\u2019ll understand why. Is it the cheeky grin, the powerful choice of headwear, or the 18th-century pre-cursor to finger guns? It\u2019s hard to say for sure, but there\u2019s something about this painting that manages to entertain everyone who sees it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/New-Project-11.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12886\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"13-portrait-of-madame-pasteur-nee-madeleine-alexandre-antoinejean-gros\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>13.<\/strong> <strong>Portrait of Madame Pasteur, n\u00e9e Madeleine Alexandre &#8211; Antoine-Jean Gros<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-2-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p> <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12757\" style=\"width: 350px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Antoine-Jean_Gros_-_Madame_Pasteur.jpg\" alt=\"Portrait of Madame Pasteur, n\u00e9e Madeleine Alexandre by Antoine-Jean Gros.\"><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p> A mysterious female figure with unknown motivations behind what appears to be the hint of a smile. No, it\u2019s not the Mona Lisa \u2013 it\u2019s Madame Pasteur. This portrait was painted by the young Antoine-Jean Gros, who might well be the definition of a \u2018tortured artist\u2019.<br><br>After gaining renown based on his portraits of a young Napoleon (at this time still a mere general), Gros\u2019s status quickly rose as he became one of France\u2019s most admired painters. Unfortunately, his success didn\u2019t last. Over time, his focus shifted away from Napoleon, and the public criticism of his work intensified to the point of driving him into deep depression. Gros drowned himself in the Seine aged 64. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>There are several fascinating things about this painting, but the main one has to be the subject\u2019s expression and body language. It\u2019s neither open nor closed, mildly shy but still engaging, and the overall feeling is one of light-hearted innocence. Look at the way the woman (who commissioned the painting herself) is dressed \u2013 not in aristocratic splendour, but in a relatively simple gown. Portraits were often commissioned as a form of self-expression, so how is she trying to portray herself to the world?<br><br>One last thing: Alexandre Madeleine Pasteur was around 25 years old when this portrait of her was created. Gros was around 23. While there is no indication that their relationship was anything more than professional, look closely at the painting, and see if you can detect a glimmer of something more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"14-galerie-dapollon\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>14. Galerie d&#8217;Apollon<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/IMG_0077.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Galerie d'Apollon in the Louvre.\" class=\"wp-image-12785\" style=\"width:1024px;height:768px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Galerie d&#8217;Apollon<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>This spectacular gallery, which hosts the French crown jewels, is a work of art in itself. With golden decorations and paintings from wall to ceiling, it\u2019s visually stunning and one of the Louvre\u2019s most genuinely gasp-inducing areas. This hall was restored at the command of Louis XIV, the Sun King, and essentially served as a prototype for the famous Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles. If you can\u2019t fit in a day trip to Versailles, visiting the Louvre and seeing this amazing gallery is the next best thing.<br><br>Henry James, the famous British-American author, visited the Galerie d\u2019Apollon aged 13, and had the following to say: \u201c&#8230; <em>its supreme coved ceiling and inordinately shining parquet, a prodigious tube or tunnel through which I inhaled little by little, that is again and again, a general sense of glory. The glory meant ever so many things at once, not only beauty and art and supreme design, but history and fame and power, the world in fine raised to the richest and noblest expression<\/em>.\u201d Thanks Henry.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/New-Project-13.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12892\" style=\"width:319px;height:106px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 id=\"15-boy-strangling-a-goose\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>15. Boy Strangling a Goose<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/IMG_0005-1.jpg?fit=1024%2C768&amp;ssl=1\" alt=\"An ancient Roman statue of a boy strangling a goose.\" class=\"wp-image-12781\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Boy Strangling a Goose<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>The last thing you might be expecting to see at the Louvre is a naked boy ferociously choking and punching a goose. That\u2019s exactly what you\u2019re going to see. You can basically hear the goose honking for vengeance, and the dynamism of the scene is undeniable. Just think about the fact that at some point around 2,000 years ago, a Roman sculptor devoted weeks of their life to crafting this spectacular depiction of a child fighting a bird. It\u2019d be rude not to admire it.<br><br>It\u2019s believed that this statue was based on an original Greek work, which was found in the ancient Asklepion (healing center) on the island of Kos. This has led some art historians to believe that the statue may be a metaphor for the struggle against disease and fevers \u2013 presumably represented here by the goose being ruthlessly pummeled. Either way, it\u2019s one of the Louvre\u2019s many unexpected delights.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/New-Project-14.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12893\" style=\"width:337px;height:112px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-to-get-the-most-out-of-visiting-the-louvre\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to get the most out of visiting the Louvre<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Louvre is massive. If you\u2019ve never been before, imagine a very, very, very big museum. Now double that. Seriously, it\u2019s bigger than you think. Luckily, the museum has anticipated that people might be a bit overwhelmed and has created <a href=\"https:\/\/www.louvre.fr\/en\/parcours\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">a series of recommended routes<\/a> to take.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>For the quick and ambitious<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If you\u2019re interested in seeing as many top highlights in as little time as possible, try the \u2018Masterpieces of the Louvre\u2019 walking routes. There are two in total, one for the Denon Wing and one for the Sully Wing, with each lasting around 90 minutes. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.louvre.fr\/en\/routes\/masterpieces-louvre\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The first<\/a> lets you see the inimitable Mona Lisa, The Raft of the Medusa, Winged Victory of Samothrace, and more. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.louvre.fr\/en\/routes\/masterpieces-louvre-0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The second<\/a> will take you past the Louvre\u2019s medieval history, Venus de Milo, and other ancient artifacts and artworks.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>For families with kids<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Parents with teenagers rejoice: museums are cool again. Jay-Z and Beyonc\u00e9 filmed an exclusive music video here, and fans of either of these pop culture icons will relish the opportunity to retrace their steps throughout the museum. This is exactly why the Louvre has <a href=\"https:\/\/www.louvre.fr\/en\/routes\/jay-z-and-beyonce-louvre\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">its own designated walking trail devoted to the Carters<\/a>. Spend 90 minutes admiring some of the artworks featured in the video, including The Intervention of the Sabine Women, The Coronation of Napoleon, and \u2013 of course \u2013 the Mona Lisa.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>For the art aficionado<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Honestly, you could spend days wandering around the Louvre. And that\u2019s exactly what you should do if you\u2019re seriously into art. Divide your visit up into two separate days, and plan out what you want to see in advance. Whether it\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.louvre.fr\/en\/routes\/leonardo-raphael-titian\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">a deep-dive into the Italian Renaissance<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.louvre.fr\/en\/routes\/funerary-art\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">an exploration of Egyptian funerary art<\/a>, the Louvre has you covered. Alternatively, spend one day making sure you get to see the highlights, and return again to do some further exploration of lesser-known gems like the ones mentioned above. This way you\u2019ll get a comprehensive overview of the art and artists at the Louvre.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"practical-information-about-visiting-the-louvre\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Practical information about visiting the Louvre<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/New-Project-15.png\" alt=\"Louvre standard opening hours Monday: 09:00-18:00 Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 09:00-21:45 Thursday: 09:00-18:00 Friday: 09:00-21:45 Saturday: 09:00-18:00 Sunday: 09:00-18:00\" class=\"wp-image-12914\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>On the first Saturday of each month, the museum is open from 18:00 to 21:45, and admission is free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"nbsp-getting-there\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">   <strong>Getting there<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Louvre is easy to get to. Plenty of metro services and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/en\/paris-c66746\/hop-on-hop-off-open-bus-tour-paris-p974674\">buses<\/a> go towards it, and it\u2019s basically in the heart of Paris. The closest metro stations are Louvre Rivoli and Palais Royal Mus\u00e9e du Louvre, which are both on Line 1, also known as the Yellow Line. You can also take <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/en\/paris-c66746\/hop-on-hop-off-open-bus-boat-p974812\">a scenic boat cruise along the Seine<\/a> and hop off near the Louvre! If you\u2019re coming from Gare du Nord, it\u2019s even possible to walk \u2013 it\u2019ll take around 35 minutes, depending on your speed and motivation. Choose whichever option works best for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2624.8741023651464!2d2.3354553156744573!3d48.86061107928757!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x47e671d877937b0f%3A0xb975fcfa192f84d4!2sLouvre%20Museum!5e0!3m2!1sen!2snl!4v1579794674692!5m2!1sen!2snl\" width=\"100%\" height=\"auto\" frameborder=\"0\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"%25e2%258f%25b1%25ef%25b8%258f-getting-in\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u23f1\ufe0f <strong>Getting in<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s an understatement: a lot of people want to visit the Louvre at the same time as you. While you can\u2019t control the crowds, you can still guarantee getting access to the museum smoothly and easily. How? By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/en\/paris-c66746\/louvre-museum-e-ticket-p973698\">booking a designated time slot<\/a>. This means you A) avoid the gigantic line of non-ticket holders, and B) know for a fact that you\u2019ll get in around a certain time. It\u2019s as easy as showing your smartphone ticket to the attendant, waiting for them to say \u201cOK, merci\u201d and walking into the iconic pyramid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<div data-tiqets-widget=\"availability\" data-layout=\"compact\" data-venue-id=\"124297\" data-partner=\"tiqetsblog\" data-tq-campaign=\"LouvreGuide\"><\/div><script defer=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/widgets.tiqets.com\/loader.js\"><\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"%25ef%25b8%258f-getting-around\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"> \ufe0f <strong>Getting around<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s another understatement: the Louvre is big and it\u2019s pretty easy to get lost. Make sure you <a href=\"https:\/\/www.louvre.fr\/sites\/default\/files\/medias\/medias_fichiers\/fichiers\/pdf\/louvre-plan-information-english.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">download a map on your phone<\/a> for easy reference (or grab a physical one at the start), or you <em>will <\/em>become one of the many lost-looking people trying to track where they are. In case you don\u2019t like taking advice from the internet, there are also diagrams around the museum that will tell you where you are.<br><br>Every room in the museum is numbered, making navigation slightly easier. If you know there\u2019s a sculpture you want to see in room 703, look at what room number you\u2019re in currently. Is it 701? Great, you\u2019re close, just keep going. Is it 305? Something has gone horribly wrong. Time to consult that map.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"getting-tired\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">  <strong>Getting tired<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This is something you want to avoid. Travel light, wear comfortable shoes, and bring some water. You\u2019re going to spend a good couple of hours on your feet, and those ancient Roman sculptures start looking less noble and more vindictive as you get increasingly tired. Don\u2019t hesitate to sit down, take a break, and look at the art around you. That\u2019s what all the benches are for! Lastly, when hunger starts to kick in, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/5-best-spots-for-lunch-near-the-louvre-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">check out this list of the finest French cuisine close to the Louvre Museum. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-to-add-to-your-paris-agenda\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What to add to your Paris agenda<\/strong>:<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/shutterstock_762751309.jpg\" alt=\"Photo of the Parisian skyline, including the Eiffel Tower.\" class=\"wp-image-12764\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Eiffel Tower, Paris.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Visiting the Louvre is a Paris must-do, but it\u2019s certainly not the only one. For more museums, try out the nearby <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/en\/paris-c66746\/musee-dorsay-dedicated-entrance-p973980\">Musee d\u2019Orsay<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/en\/paris-c66746\/musee-de-lorangerie-p974438\">Musee l\u2019Orangerie<\/a> \u2013 both filled to the brim with Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces by artists like Van Gogh, Monet, Renoir, and Cezanne.<br><br>If you\u2019re all done with art after spending a few hours at the world\u2019s biggest museum, try some other local landmarks. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/en\/paris-c66746\/eiffel-tower-l144586\">The Eiffel Tower<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/en\/paris-c66746\/arc-de-triomphe-l141732\">Arc de Triomphe<\/a> are two of the most iconic buildings in the world, and they\u2019re waiting patiently for you to take pictures of them. Once the museums have closed for the day, it\u2019s also worth checking out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/en\/paris-c66746\/crazy-horse-paris-p974399\">a racy Parisian cabaret show<\/a> in the evening \u2013 culture has never been so exciting! But no matter what else you\u2019re planning to do in Paris, the Louvre is a great place to start!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h4 id=\"looking-to-make-the-most-of-your-trip-to-paris-get-a-head-start-with-this-guide-wondering-about-social-customs-within-the-city-of-love-here-are-7-social-customs-in-paris-to-know-before-visiting-weve-m\" class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\">Looking to make the most of your trip to Paris? Get a head start with this guide. Wondering about social customs within the <em>&#8216;city of love<\/em>&#8216;? Here are<a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/social-customs-in-paris\/\"> 7 social customs in Paris to know before visiting. <\/a>We&#8217;ve made your future visit even more convenient by pulling together top tips on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/how-to-get-to-louvre\/\">how to get to the Louvre<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/restaurants-near-louvre\/\">best places to grab a bite to eat nearby!<\/a><\/h4>\n","protected":false,"gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"html"}]},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Visiting the Louvre for the first time? Here&#8217;s everything you need to know, including practical information, top highlights, and a child fighting a goose.<\/p>\n","protected":false,"gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"html"}]},"author":31,"featured_media":6320,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[47,35],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-6319","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-museums","category-venue-guides"],"acf":[],"gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"link","format":"url"}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6319","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/31"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6319"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6319\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":20874,"href":"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6319\/revisions\/20874"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6320"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6319"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6319"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tiqets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6319"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}