The Apollo Gallery and the Crown Jewels of France. The Apollo Gallery (Galerie d'Apollon) is truly one of my favorite galleries within the Louvre. It was originally created for Henri IV (the fourth) but much of it was destroyed by fire on February 6, 1661. The reconstruction was done under architect Louis Le Vau between 1661 and 1663 by order of young King Louis XIV (the fourteenth). It is easy to see how it served as a model for the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles Palace. The Apollo ... View the Post
Napoleon III Apartments at the Louvre
In the Richelieu wing of the Louvre, you will find Escalier du Ministre (the Minister’s Staircase) that leads to the first floor containing Napoleon III Apartments at the Louvre. Napoleon III Apartments at the Louvre Don’t be in a rush, walk slowly up the stairs, look around and up. The ceremonial staircase was built for the Minister of State to impress distinguished visitors attending parties and affairs of state. Napoleon III (Louis-Napoléon Bonaparte, nephew of Napoleon ... View the Post
The Louvre’s Magical Sculpture Garden
My first encounter with ancient sculpture came while I was living on Crete. I took a ship to Athens and went to the Parthenon. It was lovely and memorable and I feel so blessed to have had that experience. But it wasn’t a magical experience. I know that may sound strange but I indeed had a magical experience when I found myself alone, on the ground floor of the Richelieu wing, looking at the Cour Marly sculptures. Somehow, as the late afternoon sun streamed through the glass ceiling, I could ... View the Post
The Louvre’s Secret Entrance and its Dazzling Exterior
It’s common knowledge during the high tourist season that the line for entry via the glass pyramid can run two to three hours long. In the hot sun. Not fun. This post will cover how to gain entrance into the Louvre quickly and appreciating its beautiful exterior. The Louvre’s Secret Entrance and its Dazzling Exterior. The Louvre’s Secret Entrance and its Dazzling Exterior For a quick entrance, I recommend you purchase your ticket in advance and avoid entry via the pyramid. You can see just ... View the Post
Waiting on Notre Dame de Paris
It is impossible to overlook Notre Dame de Paris (Our Lady of Paris). Unlike other iconic landmarks scattered over Paris its rising spire and twin towers beckon visitors like a shining beacon. Waiting on Notre Dame de Paris. History of the Church But then, that was its intention when Notre Dame first began groundbreaking in 1163 A.D. It finished completion in 1345. The Paris of that era was of course very different. Notre Dame stood by itself for many, many years. During this time a ... View the Post
The Gardens Of Paris
There are quite possibly hundreds of little community gardens nestled within the various arrondissements of Paris. But today I want to share with you two of The Gardens Of Paris, Le Jardin du Luxembourg and the Jardin des Tuileries. The Gardens Of Paris Happy poppies were found in the Luxembourg garden. Luxembourg garden or Jardin du Luxembourg is the second largest public garden in Paris. It was created by Marie de' Medici wife of King Henry IV from the house of ... View the Post
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