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For art lovers the world over the Louvre is a necessary pilgrimage. The Louvre is an architectural piece of art in its own right housing over 30,000 works of art. The origins of the Louvre date back to 1200 BC when Philippe August began construction of the fortress along the Seine. In the 1500's it was home to the royal family, eventually opening as a museum in 1793.

The Louvre is the world's largest museum and is always busy. The best way to enter the museum and avoid the long line is to enter via the metro entrance. This is the quickest way into the museum. The best way to avoid ticket lines is to purchase the museum pass, which gives you access to 70 museums and monuments throughout Paris. Price is based on a two, four, and six day pass. You can purchase museum passes at major metro stations. This pass eliminates, or minimizes lines at all attractions, and is therefore the best way to get around Paris. You can also purchase tickets ahead of time on-line.

Once inside the Louvre you will walk towards the center of the museum facing the famous inverted pyramid. The pyramids were added to the museum in the eighties commissioned by French president Francois Mitterand, and designed by Ieoh Ming Pei.
To see the pyramid above the Louvre you will have to visit it as you exit the museum if you enter via the metro. The metro entrance is off of line one, Louvre Rivoli.

In the center of the museum you will find the information desk where you can obtain a map. The Louvre is enormous, so take some time to look over the map and make a game plan. The maps are in a variety of languages so if you do not speak English chances are they will have a map in a language you will understand. Once you have a map in hand figure out what and where you want to go, because realistically you will not be able to see the entire museum in a day.

The Louvre is divided into nine collections, and divided into three wings: Richelieu, Denon and Sully. A few of the most well known pieces housed at the Louvre include: the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Coronation of Napoleon, along with the Winged Victory of Samothrace.

On the day you choose to visit the Louvre make it your event of the day. This will keep you from rushing through the museum, which is near impossible anyhow. Wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, pack a snack, and be prepared for crowds; especially near the Mona Lisa. You are allowed to take picture, but do not use a flash. The Louvre has several boutique and souvenir shops, along with a few places to purchase a quick bite to eat or a beverage. Time flies when you're feasting on beautiful masterpieces, so take your time and keep in mind that you can always visit more of the museum on another day or even a return trip to Paris.

Learn more about this author, R.P. Bailey.
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