France is known for its rich history, culture, and heritage. One of the best ways to explore the country’s past and present is by visiting its museums.
Paris, the capital city of France, is home to some of the world’s most renowned museums. Among them, the most popular one is undoubtedly the Louvre Museum. However, not many people are aware that Paris has another museum that is equally significant and fascinating – The National Museum of Paris.
What Is The National Museum Of Paris?
The National Museum of Paris, also known as Musée du Louvre-Lens or Louvre-Lens, is located in Lens, a city in northern France. It was opened in 2012 and was designed by Japanese architects Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa. The museum houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts that represent various periods of history.
The Collection
The collection at the National Museum of Paris includes over 700 works that are displayed in a chronological order. The museum has eight galleries that showcase art from prehistoric times to contemporary art. Some of the significant collections include:
The Galerie d’Histoire Naturelle: This gallery features fossils and skeletons of animals from different geological periods.
The Galerie des Antiquaires: This gallery showcases ancient Greek and Roman sculptures.
The Galerie du Temps: This gallery displays artworks from various civilizations such as Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome, Islam, Europe (Middle Ages), Renaissance Italy, and Modern Times.
The Galerie des Expositions Temporaires: This gallery hosts temporary exhibitions featuring artworks from around the world.
Why Is It Famous?
The National Museum of Paris is famous for its unique architecture and impressive collection. It offers visitors an opportunity to explore different cultures and civilizations through their art and artifacts.
The museum is also known for its innovative approach to displaying art. Unlike traditional museums, the National Museum of Paris has an open-plan design that allows visitors to see multiple artworks at once.
How To Get There?
The National Museum of Paris is located in Lens, approximately 200 km north of Paris. Visitors can take a train from Paris to Lens and then take a bus or taxi to the museum. Alternatively, one can rent a car and drive to the museum.
Conclusion
The National Museum of Paris is a must-visit destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts. Its impressive collection and unique architecture make it one of the most famous museums in France. If you’re planning a trip to Paris, make sure you add the National Museum of Paris to your itinerary.