The Louvre, one of the world's most renowned and comprehensive museums, was entirely refurbished and modernized from 1983 to 1998 as a result of the "Grand Louvre" project. In addition to its museum role, the Louvre also hosts private functions. On Tuesday, September 28, 2010 the Louvre will host Global Sports Industry Summit Gala Dinner.

The 21-meter high Louvre Pyramid, designed by I.M. Pei, signals the main entrance to the museum. Initially controversial but now
indispensable, the Pyramid has garnered worldwide recognition as a symbol of modern Paris since its inauguration in 1989. This glass and
steel structure with its perfect geometry provides a striking contrast to the surrounding Napoleon III style buildings. By day it reflects the
sky of Paris; once darkness has fallen it sparkles like a jewel. The purely geometric design of the pyramid is echoed by the underground
Hall Napoléon, a vast reception area of beige stone and white concrete, and a model of contemporary architecture with its straight and
oblique lines, triangles and pyramidions, circles and spirals.