The Louver
Louver Information Louver Photographs
         Located on the north bank of the Sines river in Paris is the Louver. Kings prior to Louis XIV called this fortress home. This humungous fort, with a quite a similar layout to Versailles, was where royal decisions were made for 13 Louis' and a few other kings. Wandering around the original structure (both inside and out) the visitor gets the impression that this was once a royal palace, or at least the home of someone incredibly spoiled and wealthy with a lot of free time.

   When the French revolution occurred, and the nobility was done away with, the the Louver became "public" property. All of the artwork with in it became public property and the French promptly opened the door (thankfully) for all to see the great artwork. Over time they have "collected" artwork from all over Europe and Asia Minor. Unlike the British, the French have begun to return some of the other countries' national treasures which were pilfered during imperialism. TO make up for the loss in the Louver's collection, the French are replacing the artwork with replacing them with replicas. I think this is a a very noble gesture.

  This part focuses on the outside of the building. The second part has some of the fine art found within.

I hope you enjoy the photos. Any comments, please E-mail me, .

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Click on the title or thumbnail to view the larger picture.
The Outside

Far end
Side Door

Archway
The Pyramid

Looking Out
The Courtyard
All photos by John L. Polos
Copyright March 18, 2002