The Musée d'Orsay in Paris has introduced a new virtual reality experience that delves into the design and creation of the Statue of Liberty, the most famous sculpture by French artist Auguste Bartholdi. Launched on October 3, 2026, the experience transports participants back to 1865 to a luxurious salon in the Palace of Versailles, where the concept of a massive statue symbolizing Franco-American friendship was first discussed. This VR offering is available in a designated empty room at the museum and features immersive 360-degree environments, such as a bridge on a boat passing in front of the statue during its construction. At that time, the statue had an orange-brown color, which would later turn green due to oxidation. The historical accuracy of the VR experience has been carefully reviewed by the museum’s curators to ensure it reflects the true events and details of the time. One of the most exciting aspects of the experience is a simulated climb inside the internal structure of the statue, designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel. While specifics about this part of the experience are not revealed, it promises to offer a unique perspective on the engineering behind the statue. The VR experience is part of a larger exhibition dedicated to Bartholdi and his artistic career. Visitors are encouraged to try the VR component before exploring the exhibition, which includes photographs, posters, and smaller sculptures from the same period to enhance their understanding. Tickets for the combined VR experience and exhibition cost 32 euros, while a standalone VR experience is available for 16 euros for visitors aged 13 to 17. This new VR offering follows the success of a similar experience at the Musée d'Orsay in 2024, which focused on the first Impressionist exhibition of 1874. That event attracted 80,000 visitors, showing the popularity of such immersive historical experiences. The museum continues to explore innovative ways to engage the public with art and history through technology.