Louvre

Louvre,
originally uploaded by cvraman.

The Louvre began as a fortress in 1190 and later became a royal residence. In 1793, it was transformed into a museum and was recently modernized and expanded. The "Grande Pyramide" designed by I. M. Pei, which actually serves as a skylight to the entrance, is only one of the billion-dollar additions. The Louvre's collection of the world's art spans over 3,000 years.
The best places to visit is the Napolean's appartment. The entire place are divided into 7 departments: Oriental, Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, Art objects and Graphic Art. In addition to these departments is a section devoted to the history of the Louvre as well as rooms devoted to African, Asian, Oceanic and American art.
The Mona Lisa and Radeau de la Meduse paintings are the Masterpieces, the Victory of Samothrace and Venus de Milo sculptures. Not to miss are the new Richelieu Aisle, the Arc de Triomphe du Carroussel and the Perrault colonade.