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Porte des Lions: A Discreet Entrance to Art History

Discover a serene entrance to the Louvre Museum through the Porte des Lions, avoiding the crowds for a more intimate art experience.

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The Porte des Lions, or Lions Gate, offers a less crowded entry into the Louvre Museum. Adorned with lion sculptures, this entrance provides quicker access to the museum's vast collection and a more serene start to your visit.

A brief summary to Porte des Lions

  • Paris, 75001, FR

Local tips

  • Check the official Louvre website for the Porte des Lions' operating hours on the day of your visit, as it's not always open.
  • Arrive early in the morning to further minimize potential wait times and enjoy a quieter experience.
  • Note that the Porte des Lions provides direct access to the Denon Wing, home to the Mona Lisa and other Italian masterpieces.
  • Take a moment to admire the lion sculptures flanking the entrance; they offer a great photo opportunity.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, face the Louvre Pyramid and walk towards the left side of the building. Follow the building's perimeter along the Quai François Mitterrand. The Porte des Lions will be on your left, marked by lion sculptures. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Metro Line 1 or 7 to the Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre station. Exit the station and walk towards the Louvre. Follow signs for the Denon Wing or the Seine River. Walk along the Quai François Mitterrand until you reach the entrance. A single Metro ticket costs €2.10 [Euros].

  • Taxi

    Ask your taxi driver to drop you off near the Quai François Mitterrand, close to the Louvre's southern side. From there, walk towards the entrance, looking for the lion sculptures. A short taxi ride from areas near the Louvre, such as the Palais Garnier, typically costs between €10 and €15 [Euros], depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Porte des Lions

The Porte des Lions is a lesser-known entrance to the world-renowned Louvre Museum in Paris, providing a tranquil alternative to the often-busy main entrance. Located on the southern side of the museum, near the Seine River, it allows for a more peaceful entry into one of the world's most visited art institutions. Flanked by four majestic lion sculptures created by Antoine-Louis Barye in the 19th century, the gate exudes Parisian charm and grandeur. These lions symbolize strength and protection, greeting visitors as they enter the museum. The gate itself is a fine example of medieval architecture, with intricate details that reflect Paris's rich history. Once inside, visitors can easily access some of the Louvre's most famous exhibits, including the Mona Lisa. The entrance leads directly to the sculpture section. While the Porte des Lions has historically been a favored entry point, it's good to check its current operating status before your visit, as it may have limited hours or closures.

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