The Louvre: Through the Years of Transformation

This tour explores the history and architecture of the Louvre, from its origins as a 12th-century fortress under King Philip II, through its transformation into the residence of French kings, Renaissance renovations under Francis I and Henry II, to the grand facades built during Louis XIV’s reign and imperial modifications under Napoleon.

We will walk through the main courtyards — Cour Carrée, Cour Napoléon — and see the iconic Pavillon de l’Horloge and the East Colonnade. Along the way, we will uncover hidden signs, secret symbols, and legends left by the architects over centuries.

The tour includes intriguing stories: the visit of Nostradamus, the most famous Louvre robbery, mysterious symbols on the façades, and why Picasso is connected to the Louvre in the 20th century. You will see how the Louvre shaped the axis of Paris and how architectural styles changed over time — from medieval fortress to modern museum crowned by I.M. Pei’s glass pyramid.