The Louvre Pyramid Then and Now

Essay by got1miataCollege, UndergraduateA+, November 2014

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The Pyramid Then and Now

Plans for The Louvre Pyramid in the 1980s were met with much criticism (Louvre Pyramid). Once it was completed in the early 1990s, the city was thrilled to have it. Although The Louvre Pyramid is fashioned in the load-bearing format of the Giza Pyramid, there are many differences that set them apart.

The Louvre Pyramid in France may resemble the Giza Pyramid from a distance. Once you take a closer look, you will find many differences. The Louvre Pyramid was built over an underground shopping mall. The walls are constructed of steel and glass which allow light to flow into the underground spaces below. The new entrance to the shops and museum has made it easier to handle larger groups of visitors. The sides of the Louvre Pyramid are flanked by 3 smaller pyramids, along with grand reflecting pools and fountains. The glass of the Pyramid and the reflecting pools allow the Pyramid to appear almost transparent.

The Giza Pyramid is a solid stone fixture that does not have the same light and airy feeling of the Louvre Pyramid in France. Visitors to the Giza Pyramid challenge themselves to walk the stairs that rise to the top of this grand structure. In addition, the Giza Pyramid is a giant in comparison to the Louvre Pyramid. The Louvre Pyramid stands around 72 feet tall and has a base measuring just over 116 feet.

President Francois Mitterand said, "Yes, I like history, and I like leaving traces of history" (Francois Mitterand and Paris). Mitterand wanted to revitalize the Louvre museum as it was no longer serving its purpose and visitors were frustrated by the multiple staircases, along with the upper floors of the museum that were difficult to get to. He decided to hire...