Architectural Evolution

and Styles of the

Louvre Museum
• Introduction: The architecture of the Louvre
Museum reflects its rich history and diverse
influences, spanning centuries of construction
and renovation. From its origins as a medieval
fortress to its transformation into a
Renaissance palace and modern additions, the
Louvre showcases a fascinating blend of
architectural styles.
Medieval Fortress (12th Century)

The Louvre's origins date back to the late 12th century

when it was initially built as a medieval fortress under
the reign of Philip II.
Typical medieval features included thick walls,
defensive towers, and narrow windows, designed to
withstand sieges and protect the city of Paris.
Renaissance Palace (16th Century)

• In the 16th century, King Francis I initiated the

transformation of the Louvre into a grand
Renaissance palace.
• Architect Pierre Lescot was commissioned to
design the new Louvre, incorporating classical
Renaissance elements such as columns,
pilasters, and ornate detailing.
Baroque Expansion under Louis XIV (17th Century):

• The palace underwent further expansion

during the reign of Louis XIV in the 17th
century, incorporating Baroque architectural
elements.
• Architects Louis Le Vau and Jules Hardouin-
Mansart added grandeur to the palace with
symmetrical facades, domes, and ornamental
features typical of the Baroque style.
Neoclassical Influence (19th Century)

• In the early 19th century, during the reign of

Napoleon Bonaparte, some areas of the
Louvre were influenced by Neoclassical
architecture.
• Neoclassical features such as symmetry,
columns, and pediments were incorporated
into certain sections of the museum.
Modern Innovations (20th Century)

• The most notable modern addition to the

Louvre's architecture is the glass pyramid
designed by I. M. Pei as part of the Grand
Louvre Project in the late 20th century.
• This contemporary structure serves as the main
entrance to the museum, contrasting with the
historical buildings while respecting their
architectural heritage.
THE GRAND LOUVRE PROJECT

• After careful consideration and study, Pei would ultimately accept the
commission. The project would be called the “Grand Louvre Project,” and it
would be divided into four main scopes of work.

1. GREAT CENTRAL RECEPTION AREA - THE PYRAMID

2. RESTORATION AND REFACING OF THE FACADES OF THREE WINGS ON

THE HISTORICAL LOUVRE
1. The three different wings of the Louvre are named after prominent
figures in French history. They are:
1. Richelieu (1585–1642), chief minister of King Louis XIII
2. Sully (1559–1641), chief minister of King Henri IV
3. Denon (1747–1825), first director of the Musé du Louvre.

3. ARCHAEOLOGICAL WORK ON THE MEDIEVAL LOUVRE

4. CREATION OF THE CARROUSEL DU LOUVRE - THE LOUVRE’S MASSIVE

UNDERGROUND SHOPPING CENTER

• Pei would assemble his architectural design team comprised of twenty-

eight people. The team would move to Paris and set up an office to supervise
the project.
 • In an interview, Pei and his team said they
experimented with many different forms for the
Louvre. They considered cubes and curved
hemispheric shapes. However, when they looked
closely at the existing historical Louver silhouette,
there were no curves, so they decided against it. Pei
notes, "I concluded that the pyramid was the only
acceptable shape. It was the most appropriate form.”
• Pei noted that a pyramid shape converges to a
single point as your eye moves vertically, eventually
dissolving into thin air. The pyramid was one of the
least intrusive shapes that could be used. The
translucency of the pyramid would allow maximum
visibility through and around the structure to the
historical buildings at the perimeter. Pei's highly
sensitive and respectful approach honored the
architecture of the historical Louvre.

THE GLASS PYRAMID

Conclusion

• The architecture of the Louvre Museum is a testament to its rich and

varied history, showcasing a unique blend of medieval fortification,
Renaissance elegance, Baroque grandeur, Neoclassical symmetry, and
modern innovation. As one of the world's most iconic cultural
institutions, the Louvre continues to inspire awe and admiration for
its architectural splendor.