The Louvre, originally a defensive post, then a ruler's palace, is without doubt one of the greatest museums in the world. Its imposing spaces house an overwhelming number of works of art from various places and periods. This art travel guide provides practical maps of the museum for travelers and deeper insight into the art history of the Louvre. It provides comprehensive explanations of the most important masterpieces, depictions of each work of art or architecture discussed, essays on relevant history and culture, illusrated time chart, a brief guide to artistic techniques, and artists biographies.