阅读理解。
From the earliest times, man has been interested in art. People have often worked together to collect and
save the world's art treasures.
Fine art treasures from many countries are kept in an art museum called the Louvre in Paris, France. The
works of art have been collected by the people of France over many centuries. The Louvre has not always
been a museum. The first building was a fort (炮台). In 1190, it was the king's castle with high walls and a
round tower. It had a moat to prevent his enemies from walking in.
Over the years, the number of buildings around the castle grew. By 1350, the castle was no longer needed
as a fort. The Louvre became a palace home for French kings and queens.
During times of peace, new treasures were brought in. During days of war, many treasures were stolen,
and the buildings were damaged.
When Francis I became king of France in 1515, he brought in artists from many countries. One of the
artists was Leonardo da Vinci from Italy. Da Vinci's "Mona Lisa" is the best known painting in the museum
today.
In 1793, the Louvre became a public museum, just as it is now. It is a place where art treasures have been
saved for everyone to enjoy.
1. How long has the Louvre been a museum?
A. For over 800 years.
B. Since 1350.
C. Since 1515.
D. For over 200 years.
2. Most of the works of art in the Louvre have been collected probably_____.
A. by the French people
B. by Francis I
C. by Leonardo Da Vinci
D. by people of the world
3. From the passage we can learn that _____.
A. the Louvre was once a church as well as a palace
B. Mona Lisa is kept in Italy
C. Da VinCi once stayed in France
D. the Louvre is only a place of interest to the French people
4. Why is it good for the works of art to be kept in public museums?
A. In public museums works of art will not be stolen.
B. In public museums works of art will not be damaged.
C. In public museums artists can study the works of art.
D. In public museums everyone can enjoy the works of art.
