NPR's Book of the Day 'Adventures in the Louvre' will teach you how to fall in love with the famous museum
Apr 15, 2025
Elaine Sciolino, the former Paris bureau chief of The New York Times, shares her passion for the Louvre in her guide, Adventures in the Louvre. She humorously advises against visiting the museum on an empty stomach or with a full bladder. Sciolino discusses the museum's evolution, its love-hate relationship with the Mona Lisa, and the joys of spontaneous exploration. Her insights reveal how preparation can enhance the experience and transform a potentially overwhelming visit into a delightful adventure. Don't miss her tips for art lovers!
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Prepare Before Visiting Louvre
- Never go to the Louvre on an empty stomach or with a full bladder.
- Arrive fortified, as facilities inside are limited and preparing beforehand avoids discomfort.
Why Visitors Feel Underwhelmed
- Visitors often feel underwhelmed by the Mona Lisa due to high expectations.
- The painting's small size and crowded viewing conditions may disappoint first-timers.
Louvre's Complex Origins
- The Louvre was originally a fortress, then a royal palace, not a museum.
- Its name's origin is unclear, with multiple theories but no definitive answer.