Duran Duran make Louvre history
Duran Duran have become the first pop group to perform at the Louvre Museum in Paris.

The museum opened its doors for the band - who performed in the famous Louvre Pyramid, designed by IM Pei.

The gig was organised as part of a fundraising effort for the 18th century Decorative Arts Gallery of the museum, which is due to re-open in 2011.

Singer Simon Le Bon said he hoped the show had "put a smile on the Mona Lisa's face".

'Worthy cause'

The performance marked a first for both the band and the museum, which has never before allowed a pop concert to take place in its grounds or buildings.

Le Bon added: "It was a great honour for us to be asked to perform at this prestigious event in one of the most beautiful and historic buildings in Paris and for such a worthy cause to the arts.

"We are all great lovers of the arts and have visited the museum's works many times. Helping to raise funds for this incredible institution is a tremendous privilege for all of us."

The money raised will be used to restore a Louis XV drawing room, originally created for the Hotel Villemare, which will be featured in the Decorative Arts Gallery.

Duran Duran will return to Paris on the 2 July to perform at Le Cigalle, with Mark Ronson.

They will then play four dates in the UK at London's O2 Arena.

Courtesy BBC.com