When people think of the Louvre, they often think of Leonardo da Vinci’s famous Mona Lisa painting, or the pyramids… But few mention the Napoleon III apartments. Yet this lesser-known secret tour of the Louvre is well worth a look. Before it became the museum we know today, the Louvrewas a prestigious palace. Here, you’ll discover all the splendor of the Second Empire, in historic settings that are virtually intact. A true journey through time…
A secret tour of the Louvre palace through sumptuous décor
Located in the Richelieu wing of the palace, the Napoleon III apartments are a real feast for the eyes. Comprising a suite of reception rooms, they were occupied by minister Achille Fould and his family, among others. In this rich, bourgeois Louis XIV-style interior, you’ll discover eleven rooms, each more spectacular than the last.
Covered in gilding, paintings, velvet and monumental chandeliers, it’s easy to imagine the world’s greats strolling through such a place. Between society dinners parties, Second Empire high society parties and political meetings with the upper echelons of society, these walls are bound to hold secrets… What’s more, the decor has been preserved almost exactly as it was 150 years ago…
Among the most remarkable rooms is the Grand Salon, with its absolutely prodigious Baccarat chandeliers. At the time, it could seat up to 250 guests. The dining room, with its trompe-l’oeil arbour, is a feast for the eyes. You’ll feel as if you’re in a real garden, with a romantic spirit.
For almost a century, the room was closed to the public. It wasn ‘t until 1993 that these rooms could be admired by as many people as possible. They are now part of the museum’s objets d’art department. A magical place to visit at least once in your life.