The French revolution of 1789 marked the end of the monarchy in France and the reckoning with the past. It represents a turning point in the social, cultural and political life of France, which has has a far-reaching impact on the entire European continent. The paper defines how the French Revolution influenced cultural heritage and its understanding in general. The heritage, which until then was in the hands of the clergy and nobility, that is, part of the private collections, after 1789 becomes available to everyone. After the French Revolution, everything was considered the property of the people, including the entire heritage. Regulations of the protection of heritage were adopted, and monuments of history, science and art were recognized as part of the cultural heritage of the people. Lists of the works of art and buildings useful for the education of the people were compiled, and the state had the duty to take care of them. Accordingly, a museums were founded, and during this period the Louvre, one of the world's most famous museums, was created. The Museum of French Monuments was also established in Paris, which previously served as a depot for objects from churches and monasteries that had been demolished during the Revolution itself.