The Louvre Museum in Paris, famed for housing Leonardo da Vinci's iconic Mona Lisa, is set for a major transformation over the next decade. French President Emmanuel Macron has revealed plans for a substantial renovation, aptly dubbed the “Louvre New Renaissance.” Key highlights include a dedicated room for the world-renowned painting and an efficient new entrance near the River Seine, with the completion target set for 2031.
Currently regarded as the most visited museum globally, the Louvre is aiming to address issues such as overcrowding and outdated facilities with this significant overhaul. The estimated budget for this ambitious project ranges from 700 to 800 million euros ($730-$834 million). Macron's announcement emphasized the need for the Mona Lisa to have its own space, allowing a focused experience for art enthusiasts and easing congestion for other museum visitors.
At present, the Mona Lisa is displayed behind protective glass in a crowded gallery, often resulting in other masterpieces by Venetian painters like Titian and Veronese being overlooked. The renovation aims to enhance the visibility of these artworks by reducing visitor bottleneck situations.
The upcoming renovation mirrors a crucial chapter from the 1980s when the Louvre received its last major update with the introduction of the iconic glass pyramid entrance. Originally designed for 4 million visitors annually, the museum welcomed a staggering 8.7 million guests last year, with a substantial portion comprising international tourists from countries such as the United States, China, and several European nations.
The renovation plan also includes creating new underground rooms to expand gallery space further, with funding drawn from a mix of ticket sales, patronage, and proceeds from the museum's Abu Dhabi branch. Macron has indicated that there will be a design competition for the new entrance, emphasizing architectural innovation and aesthetic appeal.
As part of the funding strategy, ticket prices for visitors from outside the European Union are expected to increase, aligning with the Louvre's aim to remain self-sustaining. Macron's vision is to ensure a more comfortable and secure environment at the museum, benefiting both visitors and staff. Currently, the French state covers half of the museum's expenses, including staff salaries, while the remaining costs are met through private contributions and earnings from associated retail and dining experiences.
The announcement came in the wake of Louvre Director Laurence des Cars' warning regarding the museum's structural concerns. Des Cars highlighted issues like water damage, temperature fluctuations, and insufficient amenities, all contributing to a risk of obsolescence. These concerns stress the need for urgent updates to safeguard the building's architectural integrity and enhance visitor experience.
Also of note, the glass pyramid entrance, conceived as part of former President François Mitterrand's 1989 project, will see adjustments to improve thermal insulation and acoustics. With these plans in motion, the Louvre is set for a revitalized journey, ensuring it maintains its stature as a leading global center for art and culture.
