Louvre Announces Major Renovation, Including Dedicated Room for the Mona Lisa
The Louvre Museum in Paris is embarking on an extensive renovation project, estimated at €800 million, to modernize its facilities and enhance the visitor experience. A significant aspect of this initiative is the creation of a dedicated exhibition space for Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, the Mona Lisa.
French President Emmanuel Macron unveiled the “Louvre New Renaissance” plan, which aims to address the challenges posed by the museum’s aging infrastructure and the overwhelming number of visitors it receives annually. Originally designed to accommodate 4 million guests, the Louvre now welcomes approximately 9 million each year, leading to concerns over overcrowding and the preservation of its art collections.
The renovation includes constructing a new entrance near the Seine River, providing direct access to newly developed underground exhibition spaces beneath the Cour Carrée. This design is intended to improve visitor flow and reduce congestion, particularly around high-traffic areas.
A focal point of the project is the relocation of the Mona Lisa to its own dedicated room. Currently displayed in the Salle des États, the painting often attracts large crowds, making it challenging for visitors to fully appreciate the artwork. The new space will allow for a more intimate viewing experience and better crowd management.
To fund this ambitious project, the Louvre plans to increase ticket prices for non-European Union visitors starting next year. Additional financing will come from the museum’s own resources, sponsorships, and revenues from its sister institution, the Louvre Abu Dhabi. The French government has emphasized that taxpayers will not bear the financial burden of the renovations.
The “Louvre New Renaissance” project is slated for completion by 2031. Museum officials are optimistic that these enhancements will not only preserve the Louvre’s rich heritage but also make it more accessible and enjoyable for future generations.
