Louvre Highlights: Discovering the World's Premier Art Collection

The Louvre Museum houses some of the world’s most renowned masterpieces. As you step into its vast galleries, you are embarking on a journey through centuries of human creativity and cultural achievement. From ancient artifacts to celebrated paintings, the Louvre highlights the pinnacle of artistic expression. This blog post will guide you through the essential Louvre highlights, showcasing the significance and beauty of each piece. Whether you are an art aficionado or a curious traveler, these Louvre highlights will ensure that your visit to the Louvre is unforgettable.

Top Louvre Highlights

As you navigate the Louvre’s extensive collection of art and artifacts, certain masterpieces stand out for their historical significance and artistic brilliance. To begin, we will dive into the top Louvre highlights, including iconic works like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and The Coronation of Napoleon, among many others. These pieces are absolute must-sees on your visit to the Louvre Museum in Paris.

Mona Lisa, Leonardo da Vinci

No visit to the Louvre Museum would be complete without seeing the crown jewel in its collection - the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci. Despite its relatively small size, the painting draws massive crowds, all eager to catch a glimpse of Lisa del Giocondo’s mysterious smile and wandering gaze. (Seriously, the crowds to see the Mona Lisa get insane, so be patient. While you wait, enjoy some of the other works in the same gallery, like Veronese's The Wedding at Cana.) The Mona Lisa is one of the top Louvre highlights, representing the pinnacle of Italian Renaissance art.

Leonardo da Vinci began painting the Mona Lisa, also known as La Gioconda, in 1503. The painting is widely believed to be a portrait of Lisa del Giocondo, a Florentine woman, commissioned by her husband, Francesco del Giocondo. Leonardo da Vinci worked on the painting for several years, bringing it with him when he moved to France in 1516, where it remained unfinished at the time of his death in 1519. After da Vinci's passing, the painting found its way into the prestigious art collection of the French Royals. The iconic Mona Lisa has graced the halls of the Louvre Museum since its installation shortly after the conclusion of the French Revolution in 1804.

The Mona Lisa is celebrated for its innovative composition and techniques, which have influenced countless artists over the centuries. Leonardo da Vinci employed his signature sfumato technique to create soft transitions between colors and tones, giving the Mona Lisa her lifelike and ethereal quality. This technique is particularly evident in the delicate modeling of her face and hands. The three-quarter pose of the subject was revolutionary at the time. The positioning of her body, turned slightly to the side while her face looks directly at the viewer, creates a sense of intimacy and engagement. Mona Lisa’s smile is one of the most enigmatic aspects of the painting. It seems to change when viewed from different angles and distances, a testament to Leonardo da Vinci’s mastery of capturing subtle expressions.

Jetset Seeker Fun Fact: In 1911, the Mona Lisa was stolen by an Italian nationalist who believed the painting should be returned to Italy. The theft caused an international sensation, and the painting was recovered two years later. This incident significantly increased its fame. Pablo Picasso was even at one point considered a suspect in the theft. More information about the theft of this Italian Renaissance masterpiece can be found in this article from NPR.

The Mona Lisa can be viewed in the Denon Wing's Room 711, also known as the Mona Lisa Room. 

Winged Victory of Samothrace, Unknown 

Another standout among the Louvre highlights is the Winged Victory of Samothrace, also known as the Niké of Samothrace. This stunning Hellenistic sculpture depicts Nike, the Greek goddess of victory. The Winged Victory of Samothrace, dating back to the 2nd century BC, was likely created to commemorate a naval victory. It was discovered in 1863 by French amateaur archaeologist Charles Champoiseau on the island of Samothrace in the northern Aegean Sea.

Upon its discovery, the Winged Victory of Samothrace was transported to the Louvre, where it underwent extensive restoration. The statue is displayed at the top of the Daru staircase, a grand setting that enhances its dramatic impact. The staircase allows visitors to view the sculpture from various angles, appreciating its three-dimensional form and intricate details.

The intricate detailing of the drapery, which clings to Nike's body and flutters in the wind, showcases the skill of the sculptor in creating a lifelike representation of fabric and anatomy. The delicate carving of the wings adds to the sense of realism. Nike’s posture, with her torso twisting slightly and her head held high, embodies triumph and divine intervention. The Winged Victory of Samothrace was likely intended to convey the glory and power of the victorious forces it commemorated.

The Winged Victory of Samothrace can be viewed in the Louvre Museum's Denon Wing in Room 703, also called the Samothrace Landing. 

Venus de Milo, Alexandros of Antioch

Venus de Milo, an ancient Greek statue of Aphrodite, is one of the Louvre’s most celebrated sculptures. Discovered on the island of Milos in 1820, this graceful and enigmatic figure is admired for its beauty and mystery. Its missing arms add to the allure, making Venus de Milo one of the quintessential Louvre highlights. The realistic rendering of her anatomy and the fine detailing of her drapery showcase the high level of craftsmanship of ancient Greek sculptors.

The Venus de Milo was discovered in 1820 on the island of Milos in the Aegean Sea by a farmer named Yorgos Kentrotas. French naval officer Olivier Voutier recognized its significance and helped facilitate its acquisition by the French authorities. The statue is believed to have been created between 130 and 100 BC, during the late Hellenistic period.

Venus de Milo stands in a classical contrapposto pose, with her weight shifted onto her right leg and her left leg slightly bent. This stance creates a naturalistic and relaxed appearance, characteristic of classical Greek sculpture. The smooth contours of her body and the delicate rendering of her facial features reflect the high level of craftsmanship of the sculptor, believed to be Alexandros of Antioch. The drapery that falls around her hips is intricately carved, adding to the statue’s realism. Venus de Milo represents the ideal of feminine beauty and has become an enduring symbol of classical art. The statue has influenced numerous works of art, literature, and popular culture.

Venus de Milo can be seen in Room 345 of the Sully Wing's Department of Greek, Etruscan and Roman Antiquities. 

The Coronation of Napoleon, Jacques-Louis David

The Coronation of Napoleon by Jacques-Louis David is a monumental painting that captures a significant moment in French history. This enormous canvas depicts the coronation ceremony of Napoleon Bonaparte and Empress Josephine at Notre-Dame Cathedral in 1804. The painting’s grandeur and historical significance make it one of the prominent Louvre highlights, offering a glimpse into the opulence of the Napoleonic era. The meticulous attention to detail in the clothing and expressions of the figures brings the historic event to life.

David, a prominent Neoclassical painter and supporter of Napoleon, was commissioned to create the painting to glorify the emperor’s reign. The painting is huge, measuring approximately 20 feet (6 meters) by 32 feet (9.7 meters). It features a crowded scene with numerous figures, including members of the French nobility, clergy, and the imperial couple themselves. In the painting, Napoleon is shown crowning his wife, Josephine, as Empress, rather than being crowned by the Pope, emphasizing his authority and control. 

The Coronation of Napoleon can be found in the Louvre Museum's Denon Wing, Room 702.

Slaves, Michelangelo Buonarroti 

Among the numerous Louvre highlights, Michelangelo Buonarroti’s Slaves stand out as remarkable examples of Renaissance sculpture. (The Slaves are also known as the Prisoners, particularly in their native Italy.) These two unfinished works, also known as the "Dying Slave" (pictured left) and the "Rebellious Slave," offer profound insights into Michelangelo's artistic process and his extraordinary ability to convey human emotion and physical form.

Michelangelo sculpted the Slaves around 1513–1516 as part of a grandiose tomb for Pope Julius II. However, the ambitious tomb for Pope Julius II was never completed. Another three Slaves are housed in La Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze in Florence, Italy. However, those in the Louvre, particularly the "Dying Slave" are the most complete out of the five marble sculptures. The unfinished state of the Slaves provides a unique window into Michelangelo’s creative process. The visible tool marks and the rough, unpolished surfaces offer a glimpse of the artist at work, revealing the stages of sculptural development. This unfinished quality, known as "non-finito," became a celebrated aspect of Michelangelo’s style, suggesting that the figures are still emerging from the stone. 

Michelangelo’s Slaves are celebrated not only for their technical mastery but also for their deep emotional resonance. These sculptures exemplify the artist’s ability to infuse stone with life and movement, a hallmark of his work. The contrast between the serene acceptance of the "Dying Slave" and the vigorous resistance of the "Rebellious Slave" reflects the complexities of the human condition. These sculptures are among the Louvre highlights, representing the pinnacle of Renaissance artistry and Michelangelo’s enduring legacy.

The Slaves can be found in Room 403 of the Denon Wing, also known as the Michelangelo Gallery. 

The Code of Hammurabi, Unknown 

Among the Louvre highlights in the museum’s Near Eastern Antiquities collection is the Code of Hammurabi. This ancient Babylonian artifact, inscribed with one of the world’s oldest legal codes, offers a fascinating glimpse into early law and society in Mesopotamia. 

The Code of Hammurabi dates back to around 1755 BC and is attributed to King Hammurabi of Babylon. The artifact was re-discovered in 1901 during excavations at Susa (modern-day Iran). The code is inscribed in a basalt (volcanic rock) pillar that stands approximately 7.4 feet (2.25 meters) tall. The text is written in the Akkadian language and contains a long list of laws governing various aspects of Babylonian society, including commerce, family, religion, slavery, and more. The top of the stele is decorated with a carving depicting Hammurabi receiving the laws from Shamash, the god of justice. This scene symbolizes Hammurabi’s role as a ruler ordained by divine authority to maintain order and justice in his kingdom.

You can find the Code of Hammurabi in the Louvre Museum's Richelieu Wing, Room 227, also known as the Code of Hammurabi Room.

Liberty Leading the People, Eugène Delacroix

Eugène Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People is an iconic painting symbolizing freedom and revolution. Depicting the French Revolution of 1830 (also called the July Revolution and Second French Revolution), this powerful work shows a woman personifying the spirit of liberty, leading a diverse group of people forward in their fight towards freedom. The painting's dynamic composition and historical importance make it one of the stirring Louvre highlights. Delacroix's bold use of color and the dramatic portrayal of the fight for freedom resonate strongly with viewers.

Liberty, with her bare breasts and Phrygian cap, symbolizes the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity cherished by the revolutionaries. Her triumphant pose and the determined expressions of the diverse group of people behind her convey courage and unity.

Liberty Leading the People is on display in the Denon Wing, Room 700. 

Seated Scribe, Unknown

The Seated Scribe, also known as Squatting Scribe, is an ancient Egyptian statue that offers a strikingly lifelike representation of a scribe at work. Dating from the Old Kingdom of Egypt (approximately 2600 to 2350 BC), this limestone sculpture is notable for its realistic portrayal of the human figure, with attentive eyes made from rock crystal and copper. The Seated Scribe was discovered in Saqqara by French archaeologist Auguste Mariette in 1850.

The sculpture’s portrayal of a non-royal individual offers insights into the broader social structure of ancient Egypt, emphasizing the roles of education and bureaucracy in maintaining a complex civilization. Additionally, he is portrayed as an ordinary individual in a naturalistic manner. The scribe wears a simple loincloth and holds a papyrus scroll on his lap, indicating his role in recording and preserving knowledge. He appears ready to write, however, his brush is missing. 

The Seated Scribe is a unique piece among the Louvre highlights, providing insight into the daily life and societal roles of ancient Egypt. Today, the Seated Scribe can be viewed in the Louvre Museum's Sully Wing, Room 635.

The Wedding at Cana, Paolo Veronese

Paolo Veronese’s The Wedding at Cana, also known as The Wedding Feast at Cana, housed in the Louvre, is one of the most impressive and celebrated works of the Venetian Renaissance. It also happens to be one of my favorites! Painted between 1562 and 1563, The Wedding at Cana was commissioned by the Benedictine monks of the San Giorgio Maggiore monastery in Venice, Italy. The painting was intended to decorate the refectory of the monastery.

The Wedding at Cana is one of the largest paintings in the Louvre, measuring approximately 22 feet (6.77 meters) by 32.6 feet (9.94 meters). The composition is grand and theatrical, with over 130 figures arranged in a lavish banquet scene. The setting combines classical architecture with opulent details, creating a sense of both realism and splendor. Veronese’s masterful use of color and light brings the scene to life. The vibrant hues of the clothing, the sumptuous feast, and the varied expressions of the guests all contribute to the painting’s dynamic energy. Veronese skillfully employs chiaroscuro to enhance the three-dimensionality of the figures and the depth of the architectural space.

Jetset Seeker Fun Fact: The musicians in the foreground of the painting are portrayals of the Venetian Renaissance masters, including Titian, Tintoretto, Jacopo Bassano, and Veronese himself.  

The Wedding at Cana remained in the San Giorgio Maggiore monastery until 1797, when it was seized by Napoleon’s troops and transported to France. It was eventually placed in the Louvre, where it has been on display since 1801. Today, you can see The Wedding at Cana in Room 711 of the Denon Wing, also known as the Mona Lisa Room. 

Sarcophagus of the Spouses, Unknown 

The Sarcophagus of the Spouses is one of the remarkable artifacts housed in the Louvre Museum, offering a glimpse into the Etruscan civilization, which flourished in ancient Italy before the rise of Rome. The Sarcophagus of the Spouses dates back to the late 6th century BC and was discovered in Cerveteri, Italy (Cerveteri is a town northwest of Rome which was once part of a Etruscan city). The Sarcophagus of the Spouses is made of terracotta, a material widely used by the Etruscans, who were skilled in pottery and sculpture. The sarcophagus was designed to hold the cremated remains of a couple, reflecting the Etruscan custom of cremation.

The equal representation of the man and woman on the sarcophagus highlights the relatively high status of women in Etruscan society compared to their Greek and Roman counterparts. Women were active participants in social and religious life, and this equality is beautifully encapsulated in the harmonious depiction of the couple.

The Sarcophagus of the Spouses can be found in the Sully Wing, Room 663.

More than the Mona Lisa: Additional Louvre Highlights by Leonardo da Vinci

There are not many Leonardo da Vinci paintings still in existence, less than 20 in the world today, which is why all five in the Louvre's collection are on my list of Louvre highlights. In fact, the Louvre Museum is home to the largest collection of paintings by Leonardo da Vinci. While the Mona Lisa is swarmed with viewers hoping to catch a glimpse of the Louvre's most famous painting, these other masterpieces showcase da Vinci's masterful skill and technique without the crowds. 

La Belle Ferronnière, Leonardo da Vinci

La Belle Ferronnière, also known as the Portrait of an Unknown Woman, is my favorite painting by Leonardo da Vinci on display at the Louvre Museum. The portrait’s title is derived from the French word "ferronnière," referring to a type of headband worn by women during the Renaissance.

The portrait features a young woman dressed in a richly adorned gown, with ornate necklaces and a delicate, bejeweled hairpiece (ferronnière). She gazes directly at the viewer with an enigmatic expression, characteristic of Leonardo’s portraits. The use of sfumato in this painting creates a soft, lifelike transition of shadows, adding to the depth and realism of the portrait. Furthermore, the intricate detailing of the woman’s attire and jewelry highlights da Vinci's attention to realism. The texture of the fabric and the luminosity of the jewelry are rendered with exceptional skill. There has been various discourse over the years as to the identity of the woman in the painting. However, general consensus amongst scholars is that the painting depicts Beatrice d'Este, the wife of Ludovico Sforza, the Duchess of Bari and Milan.

La Belle Ferronnière can be viewed in the Denon Wing's Grand Gallery, Room 710.

Saint John the Baptist, Leonardo da Vinci 

Saint John the Baptist is another renowned painting by Leonardo da Vinci, housed in the Louvre. Completed between 1513 and 1516, this work depicts the biblical figure of John the Baptist in a manner that reflects da Vinci's late style and philosophical interests. Scholars believe that this painting of Saint John was da Vinci's last painting. 

Saint John is depicted as a youthful, almost androgynous figure, with curly hair and a mystifying smile. He is shown with his right hand pointing upward, a gesture symbolizing his role as the precursor of Christ. Leonardo da Vinci’s use of chiaroscuro, the contrast between light and dark, is particularly striking in this painting. The figure of John emerges from a dark background, creating a dramatic and contemplative atmosphere. Additionally, the use of sfumato, da Vinci's technique of blending colors and tones seamlessly, enhances the painting's sense of depth and realism. 

This painting is currently on loan to the Louvre Abu Dhabi in the UAE.

The Virgin and Child with Saint Anne, Leonardo da Vinci 

The Virgin and Child with Saint Anne is a masterpiece by Leonardo da Vinci, also housed in the Louvre Museum. This complex and emotionally resonant painting, completed between 1501–1519, depicts an intimate scene of the Virgin Mary, her mother Saint Anne, and the infant Jesus. Like the Mona Lisa, the painting is technically unfinished.

The painting portrays a tender and intimate moment between the three figures. Saint Anne is seated, with the Virgin Mary on her lap, who in turn holds the infant Jesus. The interplay of gestures and expressions creates a sense of warmth and familial connection. The landscape in the background is rendered with great detail, reflecting Leonardo’s keen observation of nature. The interaction between the figures, particularly the playful gesture of Jesus reaching towards a lamb, symbolizes innocence and the sacrificial role of Christ.

The Virgin and Child with Saint Anne can be viewed in the Denon Wing's Grand Gallery, Room 710.

The Virgin of the Rocks, Leonardo da Vinci

The Virgin of the Rocks, also known as The Madonna of the Rocks, exists in two versions: one in the Louvre and another in the National Gallery, London. The Louvre version, painted first between 1483 and 1486, is renowned for its atmospheric landscape and the enigmatic interaction between the figures. The painting is also large, measuring over 6 feet (2 meters) high.

The painting depicts the Virgin Mary with the infant Jesus, the infant John the Baptist, and an angel. The figures are arranged in a pyramidal composition, with Mary at the apex, creating a balanced and harmonious scene. The gestures and gazes of the figures are rich in symbolic meaning. The angel points towards John the Baptist, who is blessing the infant Jesus, signifying his recognition of Christ’s divinity. The rocky setting and the presence of water are also symbolic, representing purity and the spiritual journey.

The Virgin of the Rocks can be found in the Denon Wing's Grand Gallery, Room 710.

Discover More Treasures: Additional Louvre Highlights

The Louvre's collection contains more than 380,000 pieces of art and artifacts. Of those, some 35,000 are on display. The Louvre offers so much to see that it could easily take you a year to view everything, which is why it is absolutely essential to familiarize yourself with the museum's highlights and make the most of your visit. These Louvre highlights — ranging from ancient artifacts to masterpieces of Renaissance and neoclassical art, and even profound depictions of historical events and religious themes — showcase the diversity and richness of the museum’s collection. Each painting and artifact offers a glimpse into different artistic movements, cultural contexts, and human experiences, inviting viewers to explore the beauty, complexity, and significance of these iconic works of art.

The Great Sphinx of Tanis, Unknown 

The Louvre’s Egyptian antiquities collection is vast and impressive, with the Great Sphinx of Tanis being a standout piece. This colossal sphinx, carved from pink granite, dates back to around 2600 to 1900 BC and embodies the grandeur of ancient Egyptian civilization. Its imposing presence and intricate details make it one of the Louvre highlights. The lifelike features of the face and the lion's body exemplify the Egyptians' skill in large-scale sculpture.

The Great Sphinx of Tanis was discovered in 1825 by French archaeologist Jean-Jacques Rifaud during excavations at the Temple of Amun-Ra in Tanis, Egypt (modern day San al-Hagar, Egypt). The sphinx measures about 6 feet (1.8 meters) in height and 16 feet (4.8 meters) in length. The sphinx is depicted with the body of a lion and the head of a human, likely representing a pharaoh or a deity. Its serene expression and the regal headdress suggest a divine or royal association. 

Today, you can view the sphinx in the Louvre Museum's Sully Wing, Room 338, in what is known as the Crypt of the Sphinx. 

The Raft of the Medusa, Théodore Géricault

The Raft of the Medusa, painted by Théodore Géricault, is a powerful and dramatic masterpiece. This large-scale painting portrays the aftermath of the wreck of the French naval frigate Méduse in 1816, with survivors struggling for life on a makeshift raft. The emotional intensity and realistic detail of the scene make it one of the unforgettable Louvre highlights. Géricault's use of light and shadow and his focus on human suffering and resilience make this painting a poignant and impactful piece.

Géricault was only 27 when he completed this piece and launched his career on the world stage by masterfully depicting an event that already had widespread public interest. Today, the painting is a popular example of French Romanticism. 

The Raft of the Medusa can be found in the Denon Wing, Room 700, also known as the Mollien Room. 

The Lacemaker, Johannes Vermeer

The Lacemaker by Johannes Vermeer is a serene and intimate depiction of a young woman concentrating on her work. This small but exquisite painting is one of the Louvre highlights within the museum's collection of Dutch Golden Age art. Vermeer’s meticulous attention to detail, the soft play of light, and the quiet intensity of the subject’s focus make this work a masterpiece of genre painting.

Vermeer’s composition is characterized by its simplicity and focus on the solitary figure of the lacemaker. The delicate handling of light and shadow, particularly on the woman’s face and hands, imbues the scene with a sense of quiet concentration. The Lacemaker has been interpreted as a meditation on patience, skill, and the quiet dignity of domestic labor. Vermeer’s ability to capture fleeting moments and inner contemplation elevates the painting beyond mere genre scene to a timeless expression of human experience. The woman's meticulous focus on her craft captivates you, urging you to admire her from afar, while keeping you simultaneously hesitant to disturb her unwavering concentration. The mystery surrounding Vermeer himself also adds to the intrigue. Very little is known about the artist, other than the fact that he had a taste for expensive paints such as ultramarine.

The Lacemaker can be viewed in the Louvre Museum's Richelieu Wing, Room 837. 

Anne of Cleves, Hans Holbein the Younger

Hans Holbein the Younger’s portrait of Anne of Cleves is a notable example of Renaissance portraiture, another one of the Louvre highlights. Painted in 1539, this portrait captures the likeness of Anne of Cleves, who became the fourth wife of King Henry VIII of England. The portrait served a diplomatic purpose, as it was intended to showcase Anne of Cleves to King Henry VIII as a potential bride. Holbein’s portrayal emphasizes Anne’s regal attire and jewelry, symbolizing her suitability as a queen consort.

However, once Anne of Cleves arrived in England ahead of her wedding, Henry VIII felt deceived as he did not find Anne to be as attractive as she was in her portrait. (If you have seen SIX the musical, you should know the story well.) Despite getting married as originally intended, their marriage ended in an annulment some six months later on the grounds that Henry VIII and Anne of Cleves failed to consummate their marriage.

This painting was recently re-displayed after significant conservation work and can be viewed in the Richelieu Wing, Room 809. 

Parthenon Frieze, Unknown 

While the British Museum in London, England is renowned for its extensive collection of sculptures and friezes from the Parthenon in Athens, Greece, the Louvre also has a piece of the famous ruins within its collection. The part of the frieze in the Louvre's collection is known as Block VII from the east frieze of the Parthenon. It was made with marble from Penteli, Greece between 442 and 438 BC. The upper part of the block and the heads of the figures are missing. This frieze has been in the Louvre's collection since 1789. 

The Parthenon frieze can be found in the Denon Wing, Room 347 which is also known as the Diana Room (Salle de Diane).   

Portrait of the Marquise de la Solana, Francisco de Goya  

The Portrait of the Marquise de la Solana by Francisco de Goya is a striking example of Spanish portrait painting and another exquisite piece in the Louvre's collection. Painted around 1804–1805, this portrait captures the elegance and personality of the Marquise de la Solana with Goya’s characteristic flair.

Goya’s portrait depicts the Marquise de la Solana with sensitivity and psychological insight. Her direct gaze and serene expression convey confidence and grace, reflecting her aristocratic status and personal charm. Goya’s brushwork is fluid and expressive, particularly in the rendering of the Marquise’s luxurious attire and delicate lace veil. The play of light and shadow adds depth to her features, enhancing the realism and presence of the portrait.

The Portrait of the Marquise de la Solana is located in the Denon Wing, Room 714.

Venus and the Three Graces Presenting Gifts to a Young Woman, Sandro Botticelli

Sandro Botticelli’s Venus and the Three Graces Presenting Gifts to a Young Woman is a Renaissance masterpiece housed in the Louvre. Painted around 1483–1486, this allegorical fresco embodies the ideals of beauty, grace, and classical mythology. The fresco formally decorated the walls of the Villa Lemmi near Florence, Italy. 

The painting depicts Venus, the goddess of love, accompanied by the Three Graces presenting gifts to a young woman. The figures are arranged in a harmonious composition that reflects Botticelli’s fascination with classical antiquity and humanism. Venus and the Three Graces symbolize feminine beauty, charm, and the virtues of love and generosity. Botticelli’s painting is characterized by its delicate lines, ethereal figures, and vibrant colors.

You can view Venus and the Three Graces Presenting Gifts to a Young Woman in the Denon Wing, Room 706.

Grande Odalisque, Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres

Grande Odalisque by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres is a neoclassical masterpiece housed in the Louvre, painted in 1814. This iconic work exemplifies Ingres’ distinctive style, combining classical idealism with sensual realism.

The painting depicts a reclining nude odalisque, a female slave in a Turkish harem, with elongated proportions and a sensuous pose. Ingres’ departure from traditional anatomy and his emphasis on linear elegance sparked controversy and criticism upon its initial exhibition. Ingres’ meticulous brushwork and attention to detail are evident in the rendering of the odalisque’s smooth skin, luxurious fabrics, and ornate surroundings. The play of light and shadow accentuates the contours of her body, enhancing the painting’s sensuality. Ingres’ innovative approach to the female nude challenged academic conventions, making the painting a landmark in the history of French art.

Grande Odalisque is located in the Denon Wing, Room 702.

The Massacre at Chios, Eugène Delacroix

The Massacre at Chios by Eugène Delacroix is a powerful painting and one of the Louvre highlights, completed in 1824. This monumental work portrays the tragic events of the Chios massacre during the Greek War of Independence in 1822.

Delacroix’s painting depicts the aftermath of the massacre, where Ottoman forces brutally suppressed the Greek population of Chios. The scene shows the devastation and human suffering inflicted during the conflict. The figures are depicted in various states of anguish and defiance, highlighting the human cost of war and oppression. Delacroix’s portrayal of the atrocities committed against the Greeks aimed to evoke sympathy and solidarity among viewers, rallying support for the Greek cause for independence.

The Massacre at Chios can be viewed in the Denon Wing, Room 700. 

Christ on the Cross Adored by Two Donors, El Greco

Christ on the Cross Adored by Two Donors by El Greco is a dramatic religious painting in the Louvre Museum, created around 1590. This composition depicts the crucifixion of Christ with a unique interpretation that reflects El Greco’s distinctive style and spiritual vision. The painting portrays Christ on the cross, flanked by two donors who kneel in adoration. El Greco’s signature elongated figures and expressive use of color and light create a spiritual atmosphere, emphasizing the divine and redemptive aspects of the scene.

Christ on the Cross Adored by Two Donors is located in the Denon Wing, Room 718.

The Former Life of the Louvre Palace (Palais du Louvre)

Before it was ever a museum, the Louvre was a royal residence - the Louvre Palace or Palais du Louvre. Constructed in the late 12th century by King Philip II as a medieval fortress on the right bank of the Seine River, the Louvre was originally intended to safeguard Paris from the threat of Viking raids and attacks. Over the following centuries, successive French monarchs expanded the Louvre into a grand palace. Then, in the 14th century, King Charles V transformed it into a royal residence. The French Revolution in 1789 marked a significant turning point for the Louvre Palace. The monarchy was overthrown, and the palace was repurposed as a public museum to display the nation’s art treasures.

French Crown Jewels 

The Louvre Museum houses a collection of French Crown Jewels, which are renowned for their historical significance, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage. The French Crown Jewels collection includes items worn by French kings and queens during coronations, royal ceremonies, and important state events. These jewels symbolize the power and prestige of the French monarchy throughout history. They were designed not only as symbols of authority but also as objects of artistic and cultural significance. The French Crown Jewels are among the Louvre highlights.

Some of the most notable jewels on display include the 140-carat Regent diamond,  the crown of Louis XV, and the 21-carat Hortensia pink diamond. The French Crown Jewels are displayed in the Galerie d'Apollon (Apollo Gallery) within the Louvre Museum and the room is an absolute must-see during your visit to the Louvre. King Louis XIV, known as the Sun King, associated himself with Apollo, the god of the sun and of the arts. The gallery's ceiling was, therefore, decorated with paintings of Apollo and the cosmos, thus earning its fitting name. The room itself is worth a look to take in the sheer grandeur of the gilded ceilings and walls. The ceiling's central painting was completed in 1850 by Eugène Delacroix. Delacroix's Apollo Slaying the Serpent Python, is an ode to French Romanticism. The room has held the French crown jewels since 1887.

My two personal favorites within the collection are the diamond brooch of Empress Eugénie which is shaped like a bow with beautiful diamond tassels and the Tiara of the Duchesse d'Angoulême which features the most magnificent emeralds. (The Tiara of the Duchesse d'Angoulême is shown in the photo to the right.)

The Apollo Gallery also houses an impressive collection of hardstone vessels. These cups are carved from various semi-precious stones including: lapis lazuli, jade, rock crystal, amethyst, and more. King Louis XIV was an avid collector of these items and at one point, his collection amounted to some 800 pieces. 

The Galerie d'Apollon is located in the Denon Wing, Room 705.

Napoleon III Apartments 

There is perhaps no better place to experience the grandeur of the Louvre Palace than the Napoleon III Apartments. The rooms are among the Louvre highlights, as the Napoleon III Apartments harken back to the mid-19th century and the Second Empire. While the name of these rooms refer to Emperor Napoleon III, they were actually inhabited by his Minister of State.

The Napoleon III Apartments in the Louvre are a stunning example of Second Empire style and opulence, reflecting the taste and grandeur of era. Emperor Napoleon III commissioned the renovation of the Louvre’s former royal apartments into a residence fit for imperial splendor in the mid-19th century. The apartments are characterized by lavish decorations, gilded furnishings, rich fabrics, and intricate architectural details.

From my experience, this area of the Louvre tends to be far quieter than the Galerie d'Apollon or the Mona Lisa Room. Plus, they provide an exquisite opportunity to see the grandeur of palatial life in France if you are unable to make time for a trip to Château de Versailles. The Napoleon III Apartments have been open to the public since 1993 and can be found in the Richelieu Wing, Room 544.

How to See the Louvre Highlights

In order to see the Louvre highlights, you have to visit the Louvre of course! Please be aware, and plan accordingly, that the Louvre Museum is closed on Tuesdays. The museum is also closed on January 1, May 1, and December 25 annually. The museum is typically open on public holidays, unless those holidays fall on a Tuesday. For the most up-to-date opening hours, please check the Louvre Museum website.

If you want to see as much as possible, be prepared to spend a full day inside the Louvre. However, if you are on a tight schedule for your sightseeing in Paris, or if you are only looking to see the Louvre highlights, then you will want to budget for at least two to three hours inside the Louvre. This will provide enough time to see the Denon Wing of the museum which houses the Mona Lisa and the French Crown Jewels, among other masterpieces. 

To save time, I highly recommend purchasing your ticket to the Louvre Museum online, ahead of your visit. (Tickets can be purchased on the Louvre's Official Ticketing Service website.) By purchasing your ticket to the Louvre online, you can minimize the time spent waiting in line to enter the museum. Audio guides and guided tours may also be booked online. To experience the museum with the fewest number of visitors, booking an entry time for 9:00 AM when the museum opens, is essential. If you can, steer clear of the weekends as they tend to be more crowded than weekdays at the Louvre. Mid-afternoon is typically the busiest time to visit the museum. If getting an early start is not in the cards for your journey to Paris, then aim to visit the Louvre on a Wednesday or Friday evening when the museum is open late until 9:00 PM.

Jetset Seeker Pro Tip: If you want to see the Louvre highlights on a condensed tour of the museum, I HIGHLY recommend Rick Steves' free audio tour. If you download the Rick Steves Audio Europe app for iPhone and Android, you can even download the audio tour to listen to it without WiFi or cellular service during your time at the Louvre Museum. The audio tour takes about an hour to listen to straight-through, but you will be inclined to pause at different parts as you make your way through the museum. The tour covers the most iconic pieces in the museum's collection including the Winged Victory of Samothrace, the Mona Lisa, The Wedding at Cana by Paolo Veronese, Michelangelo's Slaves, and more. 

Getting to the Louvre Museum 

There are multiple entrances to the Louvre Museum, with the most popular, and main entrance, being inside the iconic glass pyramid (Pyramide du Louvre) entrance located in the heart of the Louvre Courtyard, also known as the Cour Napoléon. This main entrance to the museum caters to both visitors with pre-purchased tickets and those seeking to buy tickets on-site at the ticket office. There are different lines for each group, so be sure to pay attention to the signage once you arrive. This entrance is also equipped with an elevator for disabled visitors, visitors in wheelchairs, and those visiting with strollers. However, there are two other entrances that can be less chaotic.

The next entrance is the Carrousel entrance which can be accessed via the Carrousel du Louvre shopping mall. To get the the Carrousel du Louvre, you can either take the Metro (the Metro stop for the Louvre at this entry point is ‘Palais Royale-Musée du Louvre’ on Metro lines 1 and 7) or you can enter via 99 Rue de Rivoli as shown on the map below.

The third entrance to the Louvre Museum is Porte des Lions entrance. This entrance is located near the Tuileries Garden. However, there are not lockers available at this entry point, so do not enter through the Porte des Lions entrance if you have a large bag or luggage. This entrance is also closed on Fridays. 

Louvre Highlights: In Summary 

Each of these masterpieces housed at the Louvre—whether the monumental sculptures of ancient civilizations or the revolutionary paintings of more recent history—offers a unique perspective on human creativity, cultural values, and historical events. They continue to inspire awe and contemplation, enriching our understanding of art and its enduring impact on society. The Louvre highlights are numerous, and this list only scratches the surface. However, I hope it serves as a guide to what to see in the Louvre and why each of these works is significant. The Louvre is truly a magnificent museum and worth some of your time on your upcoming trip to Paris whether you are an art aficionado or not! Bon voyage! 

Looking for more information on Paris? Check out our Paris Travel Guide for more popular sites, incredible restaurants, and more about the City of Light!

Have you visited the Louvre Museum? We would love to hear from you!