Louvre Launches €270M Design Competition for New Mona Lisa Gallery

The Louvre Museum in Paris has initiated a global design competition, inviting architects from around the world to submit ideas for a new gallery dedicated to the Mona Lisa. The museum aims to alleviate overcrowding and create a tranquil environment where Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece can be appreciated without the usual throngs of visitors.

The Vision for a New Space

Amidst record-breaking tourist numbers and staff walkouts, the Louvre has turned to design experts to help address these challenges. On June 27, 2025, the museum announced a €270 million design contest for a new entrance and a purpose-built gallery for the Mona Lisa, as part of a larger five-year renovation plan estimated to cost €400 million.

The Project’s Purpose

French President Emmanuel Macron has called the initiative a “New Renaissance.” The goal is clear: reduce congestion at I. M. Pei’s iconic glass pyramid entrance and protect the museum’s vast collection, which draws nearly 9 million visitors annually. The new entrance will be located at the museum’s eastern Perrault Colonnade and must seamlessly integrate with the 17th-century architecture without clashing with it.

Mona Lisa’s New Home

The Mona Lisa will be moved to a new, spacious 33,000-square-foot underground gallery beneath the Cour Carrée. This new location will be accessible through a timed ticket system, separate from the main galleries. The aim is to provide a more peaceful atmosphere for visitors to enjoy the famous painting without the typical hustle and bustle.

Addressing Existing Challenges

The Louvre faces several logistical issues, including water damage, temperature fluctuations, and lengthy wait times. A recent strike further highlighted the urgency of these changes, as thousands of visitors were left stranded in the museum’s courtyard. These issues underscore the need for a fresh, innovative approach to managing the museum’s infrastructure.

Next Steps and Funding

A 21-person jury will narrow down the submissions to five finalists by October, with the winner expected to be announced in early 2026. The construction will be funded through a mix of state funding, private donations, and a €10 surcharge for non-EU visitors, a fee already introduced at other French museums.

What to Expect

The new Mona Lisa gallery will offer a calm, climate-controlled environment with low-glare lighting to showcase the painting in its full glory. Visitors will enter through a separate entrance, with shorter waiting times, and finally have the opportunity to enjoy the iconic artwork in a more serene and less crowded setting.