The Making of the Louvre

Long before it became the world’s most visited museum, the Louvre stood guard over Paris as a medieval fortress, later rising as a royal palace and, eventually, transforming into the cultural heart of France. Its walls have borne witness to political intrigue, dynastic ambition, and revolutionary upheaval, all of which left their mark on the extraordinary museum we know today.

In this richly illustrated lecture, we’ll trace the Louvre’s fascinating evolution:

• From its medieval foundations and its transformation into a palace of kings
• To the vision of the French Revolutionaries who declared it a museum “for the people”
• To its growth into a world-renowned institution housing more than 35,000 works of art

Along the way, French art historian Tosca Ruggieri will guide you beyond the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, spotlighting overlooked masterpieces and hidden corners too often missed by hurried visitors. These quiet treasures, paintings, sculptures and objects, carry their own surprising stories and reveal the brilliance of artists across the centuries.

The Louvre is more than a museum: it is a living symbol of French history and culture. Join us as we peel back its layers and rediscover the many identities of this iconic place.

📅 When: Tuesday, November 25th – 7:30pm EST

📍 Where: Live on Zoom

💻 Replay: Can’t attend live? A recording will be available for 7 days after the event.

📧 The Zoom link will be sent a few days before the lecture.

Presented by Tosca Ruggieri, an independent art historian and curator of cultural events in Washington, D.C. Tosca is known for her engaging, intimate lectures and museum tours that bring art and history vividly to life.
For more information and to subscribe to the newsletter, visit www.artwithtosca.com.

The castle in the 15th century as illustrated in the Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry. ©Photo. R.M.N. / R.-G. Ojéda

The Wedding at Cana by Paolo Veronese, 1563, Louvre, Paris

Previous guests reviews:

‘I so enjoyed Tosca Ruggieri's art lessons! She prepares them in depth, with colorful commentaries and accompanying images to bring the lecture to life! I will sign up again soon. She also speaks fluent French, English and Italian and brings her worldliness to every enlightening lecture.’ Anita B.

‘I wholeheartedly recommend Tosca’s excellent art events. They are very well researched, fascinating, and captivating!’ Linda M.

‘Tosca is such a treasure trove of knowledge and curious insights. Love her lectures, blogs and newsletter as I always leave learning new things in an accessible yet comprehensive way.’ Daniela T.

‘Very knowledgeable , good communicator and amicable.’ Juan M. F.

'Thank you. Beautiful and informative presentation. I enjoy your presentations.' Leslie S.

'Excellent webinar: very informative, great slides and Tosca was a first-rate presenter!'

'Tosca really knows her stuff and how to present it in an enlightening way!'