The Louvre (Palais du Louvre)

The Louvre, or Palais du Louvre, is a world-famous historic palace and art museum in Paris, France. Originally built as a fortress in the late 12th century, it was transformed into a royal residence and later into a public museum in 1793. The Louvre houses one of the world’s largest and most diverse art collections, including iconic works like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Its architecture features both medieval and Renaissance elements, with grand glass pyramids added in the 1980s for modern contrast. It is a symbol of France’s cultural heritage and a major destination for art lovers worldwide.