Louvre's 223-Year Evolution: From Fortress to Global Icon

The Louvre Museum, located in Paris, was officially opened on August 10, 1793, and was later renamed 'Muséum central des arts de la République' on November 8, 1793. Originally constructed as a fortress by King Philip Augustus in 1190, it underwent significant changes under Francis I in 1546. The museum, which became a public institution during the French Revolution, saw expansions in its collections under Cardinal Richelieu and Louis XIV. New wings were added during the reigns of Napoleon and Napoleon III. In the early 20th century, the museum adopted a historically organized display. President Mitterrand commissioned the glass pyramid designed by I. M. Pei, and a satellite location opened in Lens in 2012. In 2016, artist JR added a photographic panel to the pyramid. In 2015, the Louvre attracted 8.6 million visitors, making it the most frequented museum globally.