The Majestic Victoire de Samothrace: A Masterpiece of Ancient Art
Discover the stunning Victoire de Samothrace, an ancient Greek masterpiece that embodies victory and artistry within the renowned Louvre Museum in Paris.
The Victoire de Samothrace, popularly known as the Winged Victory, is one of the most celebrated sculptures of the Hellenistic period, located in the Louvre Museum in Paris. This remarkable piece, believed to have been created around 190 BC, depicts the goddess Nike standing triumphantly on the prow of a ship, commemorating a naval victory. Measuring over 8 feet tall, the statue is not only an exquisite representation of ancient Greek art but also a stunning example of how movement and emotion can be captured in stone. The dynamic posture of Nike, with her flowing garments appearing to flutter in the wind, showcases the masterful craftsmanship of the sculptor and continues to inspire awe among visitors today. Visitors to the Louvre are often drawn to the Victoire de Samothrace, which is prominently displayed at the top of a grand staircase, allowing for a dramatic viewing experience. The surrounding architecture and the play of light further enhance the visual impact of this iconic statue. As you approach, take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of the drapery and the sense of motion that seems to breathe life into the figure. The statue's placement within the museum also reflects its historical significance, as it was originally found on the island of Samothrace, which adds to its allure as a symbol of victory and divine favor. While exploring this extraordinary piece, consider the broader context of the Louvre itself, which houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts spanning from ancient civilizations to the 19th century. A visit to the Victoire de Samothrace is not just an encounter with a masterpiece, but also an immersion into the rich narrative of human history and artistic expression that the Louvre encapsulates.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience with the statue.
- Take your time to appreciate the details of the statue from different angles, especially the flowing drapery.
- Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the Victoire de Samothrace.
- Combine your visit with other nearby attractions in the Louvre to make the most of your time.
A brief summary to Victoire de Samothrace
- 4 Quai François Mitterrand, Paris, 75001, FR
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, head towards central Paris. From the Boulevard Périphérique, take the exit for Porte de Bercy and follow signs for the A4 towards Paris Centre. Once in central Paris, navigate towards the Seine River. Use a GPS or navigation app to guide you to the address 4 Quai François Mitterrand, 75001 Paris. Note that parking can be limited in this area, so consider using a nearby parking garage like 'Parking Quai de la Tournelle' or 'Parking Saint-Germain-des-Prés'. Expect to pay around €2-4 per hour for parking.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, begin your journey by taking the Metro. The closest Metro station is Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre (Line 1 or 7). From there, walk towards the Seine River (approximately 10 minutes). Alternatively, take RER Line C to the station 'Musée d'Orsay', which is a short walk from the Victoire de Samothrace. If you are traveling from further away, you can purchase a Paris Visite travel pass for unlimited travel on public transport which costs around €12 for a day.
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Bus
You can also reach Victoire de Samothrace by bus. Take bus lines 24, 27, 68, or 69, which stop near the Musée d'Orsay. From the bus stop, it's just a 5-minute walk to 4 Quai François Mitterrand. Tickets can be purchased from machines at bus stops, costing €1.90 each. Make sure to validate your ticket before boarding.
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Walking
If you're already in the vicinity of central Paris, walking can be a pleasant way to reach Victoire de Samothrace. From the Louvre Museum, it's about a 15-minute walk. Head southeast towards the Seine River, then follow the riverbank to the west until you reach 4 Quai François Mitterrand.
Attractions Nearby to Victoire de Samothrace
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Krilata pobjeda Samotrake
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Galerie d'Apollon
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Musée du Louvre - Galerie des Antiquités
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Louvre Museum
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Louvre Pyramid
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Auditorium du Louvre - Michel Laclotte
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Cour Carrée
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Musée du Louvre - Département des Antiquités Orientales
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Louis XIV sous les traits de Marcus Curtius (copie)
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Pont des Arts
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Colonnade de Perrault
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Piramide Invertida
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Place du Carrousel
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Pavillon de la trémoille
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Monument of Gaspard de Coligny of Châtillon
Landmarks nearby to Victoire de Samothrace
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Société des Amis du Louvre
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Tourism France Louvre
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Loi Monuments Historiques
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Jacques De Molay (Knight Templar) Memorial
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Au Bourdon d'or
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Pont Neuf
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Statue of Joan of Arc Paris
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Jardin du Palais Royal
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Rene Sahors birth place. Rene Sahors née ici.
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Grand Bassin Rond
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Place Furstemberg
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Tomb of Admiral de Grasse
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Square Laurent-Prache
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Statue of Louis XIV
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Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés