The Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum is one of the most discussed in the world. When the construction of the facility and the transfer of paintings from France were announced, 400 archaeologists and museum experts signed a petition against its opening. Despite this, the attraction is open and popular.
History of creation
Initially, the opening of the art museum was planned for 2012, but the dates were repeatedly postponed. The Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum was launched in 2017, and it went down in history as the first universal museum in the United Arab Emirates.
Here you can see the masterpieces of Leonardo da Vinci and other art objects from various eras. The art museum's collection was assembled from exhibits on loan from Versailles, the Louvre, the Musee d'Orsay and other famous institutions. The staff of the institution provides them with proper care.
Architectural features
The decision to launch the museum was made in 2007, the 24,000 square meter building was designed by French architect Jean Nouvel. It is decorated with a dome with a diameter of 180 meters, consisting of almost 8 thousand metal stars that intertwine with each other.
This creates the feeling that the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum is open-air. The atmosphere is conducive to exploring the masterpieces collected here. There are 55 pavilions inside, half of which are occupied by galleries with exhibits.
Collection from different countries
In addition to the works of Leonardo da Vinci, you can look at the self-portrait of Vincent Van Gogh, Napoleon through the eyes of Jacques-Louis David. As part of the signed agreement, France is providing Abu Dhabi with 300 works for 10 years with the option to extend the contract for several years. The museum hosts exhibitions dedicated to the ancient culture of India, China and other countries.
Special attention in the Louvre Abu Dhabi museum is attracted by a page of the Koran, preserved from the 9th century, 2 Bibles from the 13th century, and the Torah of 1498. In addition to France, other states have donated almost 30 valuable exhibits to Abu Dhabi, among which are a 2-head bust from Ain Ghazal, 400 dirhams from Oman, and an instrument from Saudi Arabia made before our era.
The scale of the attraction
Despite the criticism of the universal museum and the petition against its opening, there are experts who highly appreciated the work of the institution and the expositions presented in it. The opening of the Arabic version of the Louvre was carefully prepared. The construction works are estimated at 600 million euros.
The UAE capital has spent more than $500 million to gain the right to be associated with the Louvre. This allows you to hold exhibitions and receive management advice. Architect Jean Nouvel defended the project and said the working conditions for the museum's builders in Abu Dhabi were better than at some sites in Europe.
How the museum works
You can watch exhibitions, attend lectures, master classes, educational programs and interactive zones. The Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, Monday is a day off. The doors for guests are open from 10 a.m., on weekdays the institution closes at 6:30 p.m., and on weekends – 8:30 p.m. Admission is free for up to 18 years old.
How to get
The Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum has become the hallmark of Saadia T Island, which can be reached by bus No94. There is no other public transport, you can call a taxi or take a rented car.
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