Louvre-Lens

An outpost of the Louvre showing masterpieces in a contemporary building. Inaugurated in December 2012, the museum stands on the site of the former No. 9 pit of the Lens mines and has become one of the symbols of the mining basin’s regeneration.

Designed by the Japanese practice SANAA, the building lines up low glass and aluminium volumes in which the surrounding park is reflected. Its Gallery of Time presents major works from the Louvre’s collections, regularly renewed, while other spaces host temporary exhibitions. Linked to the Louvre by a scientific and cultural agreement, the museum gives access to its collections outside Paris.

For groups : Groups must book by telephone at least two weeks before the visit, which gives them priority access to the exhibition spaces. The visit is led by one of the museum's guide-lecturers or by an outside guide holding a professional guide card, in groups of 8 to 25 people for visits led by an outside guide. For visits of 1 hour 30 minutes or more, half an hour can be devoted to the history and architecture of the museum. Walking-stick seats and wheelchairs are lent subject to availability, and a free picnic area is available in addition to the cafeteria.

Louvre-Lens – 62300 Lens

On request – preferential group rate (please contact us)