For more info on Louvre, visit: www.worldsiteguides.com "..The known history of the Louvre started as early as year 1190, when king Filip II built a fortress on the site to protect Paris from Viking raiders. The remains of this fortress can actually still be seen in the Louvre crypt. During the 14th century, Charles V converted the fortress into a royal residence and later in 1546, Francis I had the whole site renovated into the French Renaissance style Louvre one can see today. Francis I is by many seen as the founder of the modern Louvre, as he not only renovated the site, but also acquired the Louvre's center piece; the Mona Lisa." For more great video and audio guides from the world's most interesting places, check out www.worldsiteguides.com