In a significant move to address the growing issue of overcrowding, French President Emmanuel Macron has announced a major renovation plan for the Louvre Museum, the world’s most visited museum.
The plan includes creating a separate space with a dedicated entrance for Leonardo Da Vinci’s iconic painting, the Mona Lisa. This initiative aims to enhance the visitor experience and potentially increase the annual number of visitors to 12 million.
The Louvre’s popularity has become a double-edged sword. While it attracts millions of visitors each year, it also puts a “physical strain” on the historic building. Laurence des Cars, the museum’s director, has highlighted concerns about overcrowding, leaks, and sub-standard facilities.
The renovations are part of a broader effort to address these challenges and ensure the museum remains a premier cultural destination.
Quick Summary
The Louvre is undergoing renovations to reduce congestion and improve visitor experience.
Renovations will occur over the next few years while the museum remains open.
“The Louvre’s popularity is causing a physical strain on the building,” said Laurence des Cars.

Background
The Louvre, located on the banks of the Seine, has been facing significant challenges due to its immense popularity. Last year, it welcomed about 8.7 million visitors, which is twice the number it was designed to accommodate.
This has led to overcrowding, infrastructure issues, and concerns about the preservation of artworks. The museum’s most modern addition, the glass pyramid designed by IM Pei, has also been criticized for its shortcomings.
Impact
The renovations, costing between 700 and 830 million euros, are designed to alleviate these issues. By creating a separate space for the Mona Lisa, the museum hopes to distribute visitors more evenly throughout the building. This should improve the overall experience for patrons and help maintain the integrity of the artworks on display.

Expert Opinions
President Macron expressed his hope that these changes will not only enhance the visitor experience but also increase the annual number of visitors. Laurence des Cars has emphasized the need for these renovations, stating that the museum has reached “saturation point.” Christian Galani, a national board member of the CGT Culture trade union, noted the frequent deterioration of the building and staffing issues.
“The Louvre’s popularity is causing a physical strain on the building,” said Laurence des Cars.The museum welcomed about 8.7 million visitors last year, and ticket prices rose by 30% before the Paris Olympic Games.

FAQs
- Q: What are the main goals of the Louvre renovations?
A: The renovations aim to reduce congestion, improve visitor experience, and potentially increase annual visitor numbers. - Q: How will the renovations be funded?
A: The funds will come from the museum’s coffers and increased ticket prices for visitors from outside the European Union.
Conclusion
The Louvre’s renovation plans mark a significant step towards addressing the challenges posed by its immense popularity. As the museum continues to evolve, it remains a cultural icon and a must-visit destination for art lovers worldwide.