
Concerns Raised by Louvre Director to French Ministry of Culture

The Director General of the Louvre, France’s largest museum, Laurence des Cars, has raised concerns about the deteriorating condition of the palace and its structures, as well as the potential threat to its exhibits. In a letter addressed to the Ministry of Culture, des Cars highlighted the "worrying level of obsolescence" in some of the buildings, stating that damage to the premises is increasing and some areas are no longer waterproof. Additionally, the director expressed concerns about temperature fluctuations that could endanger the preservation of works of art.
Des Cars also pointed out the inadequate presentation of one of the Louvre’s main exhibits, Leonardo da Vinci’s painting "La Gioconda" ("Mona Lisa"). The director emphasized that despite the painting’s popularity and status as an icon, visitors often do not receive the necessary context to understand the work and the artist, calling into question the museum’s mission.
The letter, dated January 13th, was cited by the newspaper Le Parisien, bringing attention to the structural issues facing the Louvre, including the outdated glass pyramid installed in front of the palace. The director’s appeal to the Ministry of Culture underscores the need for action to address these concerns and ensure the preservation and presentation of the museum’s renowned collection.
As the Louvre continues to attract visitors from around the world, it is essential to prioritize the maintenance and upkeep of this historic institution to safeguard its treasures for future generations to enjoy.
Photo credit: mylouvre.su