The Mona Lisa was briefly attacked this week when a disgruntled woman threw a teacup at the artwork’s shield in the Louvre. The Russian woman, who is reported to have visited a psychiatric clinic after she attempted to damage the artwork, was called “clearly deranged” by officials. This attack has been added to the list of offenses staged against the painting, which included a 1956 dousing in acid and an attempted rock bashing after it was stolen in 1911 by an Italian nationalist (and returned in 1913). The Louvre is the biggest art museum in the world, and its star attraction is undoubtedly the Mona Lisa, now protected by bulletproof glass. Let’s hope it stays this way, so many we’ll be able to come see it for years to come!
The Louvre’s not the only great place to go and check out top artwork collections: here are some amazing picks around the globe.
1. Fine Arts Museum of San Francisco: The de Young is San Francisco’s oldest art museum, known as the “City’s Museum.” No only does this museum feature a great collection of American paintings and heirlooms, but it has plenty of educational arts programs for kids and their parents. Decorative arts and crafts round out their display.
Where to Stay
The Prescott Hotel: Located in a great downtown spot, this hotel is convenient for shopping destinations, and it has luxurious rooms and suites. Grab the Powell Street cable car, just one block away, to visit Fisherman’s Wharf.
Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco: Wander to the Museum of Modern Art during your travels, because this hotel is located within walking distance! Floor-to-ceiling windows and luxe amenities make this a special stay.
2. J. Paul Getty Center, Los Angeles:
3. Uffizi Gallery, Florence:
Where to Stay
Continentale: If you’re an international traveler who has seen it all, this is the place to go. Guestrooms have leather seats, furniture and desks in stylized, comfortable setups, and you might need to tear yourself away from the incredible view–it’s impressive even to the most jaded!
4. National Gallery of Art: This Washington D.C. museum has been branded “excellent” by many a visitor, and it has a particularly impressive collection of sculptures. The East Building (1978) was designed by I.M. Pei and is quite the sight, with geometrical additions and details that almost looks like fragmented prisms. An extensive painting collection is highlighted by modern and contemporary works in the East Building.
Where to Stay
Four Seasons Hotel Washington D.C.: Georgetown’s leafy parks are your view from Four Seasons Hotel Washington D.C., which has 25 suites and plenty of luxury rooms. Fine dining is a snap at the Seasons Restaurant.
Will you be catching a glimpse of the Mona Lisa, or will it be something else during your next vacation?
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