France Announces 6-Year Renovation Plan for the Louvre Museum

France Announces 6-Year Renovation Plan for the Louvre Museum

Modernizing the World’s Most-Visited Museum

France announces 6-Year renovation plan for the Louvre Museum in Paris, addressing overcrowding and improving visitor facilities. The initiative aims to create a more enjoyable and efficient experience for the millions who visit the iconic institution each year.

Key Features of the Renovation

Improved Access and Visitor Flow

• A new entrance will simplify getting in and out of the museum.
• A dedicated space with a separate entrance will house Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, easing congestion around the masterpiece.

Expanded Capacity

• Originally modernized for 4 million annual visitors in the 1980s, the Louvre now receives 9 million visitors each year.
• The renovation will expand capacity to accommodate up to 12 million visitors.

Addressing Structural Challenges

• Louvre President Laurence des Cars highlighted urgent issues with the centuries-old building, including leaks and unstable temperatures that pose risks to art conservation.
• The renovation will also improve amenities such as rest areas, dining options, and restrooms.

Funding and Costs

• The project will be financed through the museum’s earnings, ticket sales, sponsorships, and revenue from its sister museum in Abu Dhabi.
• No taxpayer funds will be used for the renovation.

New Entry Fees for Non-EU Visitors

• Starting next year, entry fees for visitors from outside the European Union will be increased, contributing additional funds to the museum’s operations.

A Legacy-Building Project

President Emmanuel Macron described the initiative as a pivotal moment for art and cultural history in France, following the recent reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral. The Louvre renovation aims to preserve the museum’s legacy while meeting the demands of its growing audience.

“France Announces 6-Year Renovation Plan for the Louvre Museum”