Online tickets for the opening day have sold out already…
Even if you can’t tell your Monet from your Manet, you’ve definitely heard of the Louvre in Paris. It’s the world’s largest art museum, and home to some of the most famous paintings in the world (we’re looking at you, Mona Lisa).
Ten years ago, it was announced that a second museum – the only other Louvre outside of France – would be built in Abu Dhabi.
Now, after years of construction, The Louvre Abu Dhabi is finally a reality. The historic museum will officially open its doors to the public this Saturday, on November 11. While online pre-sales have sold out, The National reports that you can buy tickets in person on the day. However, museum officials are encouraging people to visit after opening day, as huge crowds are expected.
We won’t be posting for a while, but our next post will be a big one. https://t.co/fKOT76AGcV pic.twitter.com/u25F0duUUn
— Louvre Abu Dhabi (@LouvreAbuDhabi) August 24, 2017
What will we find inside? The museum’s permanent collection will feature more than 600 artworks, as well as 300 masterpieces on loan from 13 French galleries that will rotate throughout the year.
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The first exhibition to be hosted by the museum will be called “From One Louvre To Another”, and is set to begin on December 21.
There will also be a children’s museum within the museum, aimed at young art enthusiasts between the ages of six and 12. A cafe is also promised, but you’ll need a ticket to the museum to get in.
Tickets will cost Dhs60 for adults, and entry will be free for children under 13, with special rates for students to be announced later.
The building itself, designed by legendary French architect Jean Nouvel, is going to be absolutely beautiful.
The museum boasts a huge silvery dome, which is made up of 7,850 metal stars. Sunlight will stream through the canopy, creating a “rain of light” on the inside walls.
Located on Saadiyat Island, the museum has been positioned to appear as though is floating on the Arabian Gulf.
While the Louvre’s opening is big news for art lovers, it’s not the only thing we have to look forward to.
The Saadiyat Cultural District is set to become a global cultural hub, home to the Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, as well as the Louvre.
Abu Dhabi: The City of Art. We love the sound of that…
Images: Supplied
