The Louvre and opulence

We had to do it and join the throngs. Saw many of the key sights, including La Jocande, despite the difficulties of finding lifts to take us from one level to another as my wife does not do many stairs. Venus de Milo was one (indeed several) steps too far.

The Pyramid is new since my last visit and despite the juxtaposition between old and new it does work. It also channels sun and heat into the entrance foyer and with temperatures soaring in Paris many were feeling the heat.

Almost by chance we took a turn and ended up in Napoleon III’s salon and chambers. The opulence is overpowering - see extra. I assume in its time it was shockingly new.

A meal in a little resto was followed by a concert in the Eglise de La Madeleine of Mozart’s Requiem. A magnificent sound though the orchestra was not up to the standard of playing in La Saints Chapelle. The choir and soloists were excellent though. still, a lovely way to end the week.