Louvre's new ticket policy: Pay extra to see the Mona Lisa
The director of the Louvre, Laurence Des Cars, announced the introduction of additional fees for viewing the Mona Lisa. These changes aim to enhance the museum's condition and create a new space for the masterpiece.
Laurence Des Cars, the director of the Louvre Museum, announced the introduction of extra fees for those wishing to see the famous Mona Lisa. She shared this information during an interview on France Inter radio.
The Louvre, the world's most visited museum, plans to introduce a separate ticket allowing access to this masterpiece by Leonardo da Vinci.
New visiting rules at the Louvre
Des Cars explained that the new ticketing system would include tickets for permanent and temporary exhibitions and an additional ticket would be required to view the Mona Lisa.
Des Cars explained that the plan involves implementing a ticket system granting access to permanent and temporary exhibitions. Visiting the Mona Lisa would require a separate ticket and special access.
These changes are part of a larger renovation plan to improve the museum's condition. At the end of January, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that the Louvre's renovation would last until 2031. Plans include creating a new entrance on the eastern facade of the former royal palace and a new space for the Mona Lisa.
Costs and financing
The renovation, which includes creating a new entrance and room for the Mona Lisa, is estimated to cost half the planned 800 million euros, or 400 million euros (approximately 570 million CAD). These funds are expected to come from the Louvre's resources, including the use of the brand by the art museum in Abu Dhabi, known as the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Additionally, the museum plans to attract donors, especially from the United States.
The Louvre director also contacted the Minister of Culture, Rachida Dati, for support regarding the museum's challenging financial situation. The new space for the Mona Lisa is intended to be accessible independently from the other parts of the Louvre and with a separate ticket, which is designed to attract more visitors and increase the museum's revenue.
