The famous Musée du Louvre in Paris has announced plans to reopen on July 6 as France emerges from lockdown. Visitors will need to book time slots in advance, as well as wear a mask inside.
In a statement, Jean-Luc Martinez, the president-director of the Musée du Louvre said: ‘The Louvre is happy to announce that it will be reopening its doors after these weeks of quarantine that we have all endured. Visiting conditions will be adapted to adhere strictly to the recommendations made by health authorities, as we want everyone to feel safe at the Louvre, whether they are coming for work or pleasure. This period has not been easy, but commitment and collaboration will see us overcome the difficulties we are facing.’
Martinez continued: ‘Although we have been providing resources on Louvre masterpieces online, nothing can replace the emotion felt when standing face to face with such treasures—the raison d’être of all museums.’
Facts about the Musée du Louvre:
- Founded in 1793, the Louvre was originally built as a fortress and then turned into a royal palace in the 16th century before becoming a museum.
- It is the biggest museum in the world.
- To see every painting in the museum, it would take 100 days, spending 30 seconds at each painting
- A total of 66% of the art in the Louvre was made by French artists
- The glass pyramid stands at 21m high
Time slots can be booked online through the Louvre’s official website, here.
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