The Louvre, the world’s most visited museum, is set to undergo a major renovation by 2031. The French government has announced an international competition to address the museum’s pressing challenges, including overcrowding and the need to improve its access system. The proposed plan includes creating a new underground hall beneath the Cour Carrée, the historical heart of the Louvre.
This space will exclusively house Leonardo da Vinci’s celebrated painting, the Mona Lisa, allowing for a rethinking of the artwork’s display and narrative. Additionally, the project outlines the construction of a second monumental entrance on the east side of the palace, facing the Seine.
Louvre’s upcoming renovation project
This new entry point aims to alleviate congestion on the helical staircases beneath the iconic Pyramid designed by I.M. Pei. A jury of 21 members, including prominent architects, art historians, and curators, will review submissions and select five finalist projects by October 2025. The winner will be announced in early 2026.
The Louvre’s director, Laurence des Cars, emphasized the need for the project, stating, “Our goal is to find a lasting solution that improves the visitor experience while preserving the integrity of this historic site.”
The renovation is part of a broader initiative to rejuvenate and modernize France’s cultural treasures. With a budget of €270 million dedicated to contemporary aspects and an additional yet-undetermined budget for heritage restoration, the Louvre is pressing forward to enhance its infrastructure and meet the needs of millions of visitors who come to see its renowned collections every year. This ambitious endeavor aims to reconcile the museum’s historic charm with the demands of modern tourism, ensuring that icons like the Mona Lisa can be appreciated in a more meaningful context while balancing the Louvre’s deep-rooted traditions with a journey towards modernity.
