Louvre Announces $800 Million Renovation to Address Overcrowding and Modernize Facilities

French President Emmanuel Macron reveals plans to give the Mona Lisa a dedicated gallery and build a new entrance by 2031.

The Mona Lisa will move to a standalone gallery with independent access, aiming to ease overcrowding and improve the visitor experience.
The Louvre will add a new entrance near the Seine River and create underground exhibition spaces as part of its 'New Renaissance' project.
The renovation, expected to cost between €700-800 million, will be funded through museum revenue, sponsorships, and increased ticket prices for non-EU visitors starting in 2026.
Museum director Laurence des Cars highlighted urgent issues, including water leaks, temperature fluctuations, and overcrowding, which threaten the preservation of artworks.
The project aims to increase annual visitor capacity from 8.7 million to 12 million by 2031 while maintaining the museum’s mission of accessibility and education.