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The Louvre. I got lots of advice on how to do it- go early, go late, have a plan, wander aimlessly, spend 6 hours, don't do more than 2 on your first visit, it's kid friendly, don't bring kids. The one thing that seemed obvious was that I had to do some research.
It seemed to me that evenings would be best to go so that narrowed it down to either Wednesday or Friday nights when the museum stays open until 10pm. Friday evening without a baby seemed like the most hassle free way to approach this monster of a museum so I did a little art history 101, downloaded an audio guide and set out for the 1st Arr. at 7pm.
Assuming I would have to queue for at least a half hour, I thought I was in the wrong place when I walked right up to the ticket machine and purchased my ticket. Apparently everyone else has more important things to do on a Friday evening than hang out at one of the largest museums in the world. Originally built as a fortress, I was immediately impressed by my underground walk through the moats and other remnants of its purpose before it became the palace and seat of power until the late 17th century.
My audioguide was pretty helpful as the narrator used footsteps in the background to help me keep my own pace as we walked from room to room. There were also very clear visuals I could follow to keep me on track. I only strayed from the course once - Now this is an audioguide made for me!
I saw some of the "must sees" - the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo and more Virgin Marys than I could keep count of. Aside from the ginormous amount of artwork in all forms - paintings, sculptures and antiquities - I was in awe with the palace itself. Everything was grand and I found myself lost when it was time to leave. The museum itself is well marked with "sortie" signs; I just was not expecting to travel through so many rooms to finally exit. (Claustrophobia was beginning to set in). From start to finish, I put in about 1.5 hours. I'm sure an art historian would just be getting started...
I'm not the type of person who can spend 6 hours in a museum, but if I were, this would be the place to do it. The Louvre is definitely a must see in Paris, but better because every time you go back, you would be certain to see something new.
- comments
Mary E Peters I dream of Paris after reading your blogs. We spent loads of time at the Louvre and Rodin's garden. Happy memories Mary Ellen