In a bold move to enhance the visitor experience at the Louvre Museum, French President Emmanuel Macron has announced an ambitious renovation plan that includes the creation of a dedicated room for the world-renowned *Mona Lisa*. This initiative, dubbed "Louvre New Renaissance," aims to address overcrowding and improve accessibility to one of art history's most celebrated masterpieces, which draws millions of tourists each year.
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| French President Emmanuel Macron announces a multiyear overhaul of the Louvre museum, with Leonardo da Vinci’s painting of the Mona Lisa behind him. (Bertrand Guay/AP) |
The proposed exhibition space will feature a special ticketing system, allowing guests to appreciate the *Mona Lisa* in a more serene and less congested environment. The extensive renovation is projected to take nearly a decade and will require an investment of approximately €700 million to €800 million (around $730 million to $834 million). Key components of the plan include a new entrance located near the Seine River and additional underground galleries designed to enhance the overall flow of visitors.
This renovation comes at a critical time for the Louvre, which has been grappling with issues related to visitor management and aging facilities. Director Laurence des Cars has noted concerns such as water leaks and temperature fluctuations that jeopardize the preservation of its vast collection. The museum's last significant renovation took place in the 1980s, making this project essential for modernizing one of the world's most iconic cultural institutions.
With these enhancements, the Louvre aims not only to protect its invaluable artworks but also to provide a more enjoyable experience for art lovers from around the globe. The dedicated space for the *Mona Lisa* will undoubtedly become a highlight of this transformative journey, ensuring that visitors can engage with this masterpiece in a setting worthy of its significance.