A glass anti-monument: the Louvre’s slickest trick is underground, where the ‘pyramid’ points to the circulation machine.
Skylight in the Carrousel du Louvre.
Featured in I. M. Pei's definitive monograph, I.M. Pei: Complete Works.
Visitor Guide
Stand off-center and watch how the seams and reflections ‘slide’ as you move—this is a kinetic object.
From the lower concourse edge looking up, mid-day for maximum ambient light from above.
Accessible with Louvre entry (inside the Carrousel du Louvre / museum circulation zones).
The inverted pyramid is wayfinding as spectacle—an architectural cursor saying ‘this is the node.’
15–30 minutes (as part of Louvre visit)
Design & Structure
Precision glass engineering + crowd choreography: geometry tuned to sightlines and daylight delivery.
Laminated glass and metal fittings—detail-driven architecture where joints are the ornament.
Inverted geometry concentrates structural and waterproofing demands at the apex—connection design is the whole game.
See Together
Buildings that pair well with Louvre Inverted Pyramid — they're nearby or share a compelling architectural conversation.
More by I. M. Pei
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Louvre
State University of New York at Fredonia
University of Rochester
Cornell University
Syracuse University
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
Nearby in 1st arrondissement of Paris
Frequently Asked Questions
Who designed Louvre Inverted Pyramid?+
Louvre Inverted Pyramid was designed by I. M. Pei and completed in 1993. It is located in 1st arrondissement of Paris, France.
Where is Louvre Inverted Pyramid located?+
Louvre Inverted Pyramid is located in 1st arrondissement of Paris, France. Its coordinates are 48.8614°, 2.3341°.
When was Louvre Inverted Pyramid built?+
Louvre Inverted Pyramid was completed in 1993. It was designed by I. M. Pei.
Can I visit Louvre Inverted Pyramid?+
Louvre Inverted Pyramid is a real building in 1st arrondissement of Paris that can be viewed from the outside. Check local information for interior access and visiting hours. Use the Parametric Atlas walking tour feature to plan a route that includes this building.