Le Louvre, Paris

One of the most well-known museums in the world, Le Louvre is a building with a long history.

Originally a 12th century fortress built by Philip II, it was extended many times into what became the Louvre Palace. For several hundred years Le Louvre continued to be a palatial home for France’s royalty, until 1682, when Louis XIV choose to live at the Palace of Versailles.

It was not until 10 August 1793, on the first anniversary of the fall of the French monarchy, that the building was opened as a museum to the public, the contents largely being composed of items from the former royal collection.

Nowadays, the museum is known for the glass pyramid that stands over the entrance in the main court, which was completed in 1989.

Image credit: Benh