Hermaphroditos Asleep, artist unknown
** NOTE: France, like the rest of the world, continues to struggle with the Covid-19 pandemic. Many Paris museums, shops, restaurants and tourist destinations either remain closed or have limited hours. All will require masks while indoors. Many also will require proof of vaccination. Please check online information or telephone your intended destination to determine any restrictions. Let’s all help each other through this harrowing period in global history. Merci! **
Today’s Paris memories are all about the fantastic art throughout the city, but especially at the Musee du Louvre.
Most people make a beeline to see the Big Three (Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Winged Victory of Samothrace), but you can spend literally days in the huge museum and never see all of the pieces on display.
Jeune Homme Nu Assis au Bord de la Mer, by Jean Hippolyte-Flandrin
Here are some of my favorites, as well as images of the gorgeous building and the lush gardens around it. And a quick tip — the place can be thronged with visitors, particularly on weekends. If you want a less-crowded experience go on Wednesday or Friday evening when the museum is open late. After 5 p.m., the crowds start to dwindle. By 7 p.m. they’re down at least 90%. And some of the wings where fewer well-known pieces are displayed can be entirely deserted.
