The Louvre Museum in Paris has announced the temporary closure of certain employee offices and a public gallery due to structural vulnerabilities. The decision follows a technical report highlighting the fragility of beams supporting the second level of the museum’s Sully wing. The report, submitted on Friday, cited ‘recent and unforeseen developments’ as the cause, though no further details were provided. As a precaution, 65 employees will be relocated for three days while experts assess the damage. Additionally, the Campana Gallery, which houses antique Greek ceramics and is located beneath the affected offices, will also be closed temporarily. This development comes as the Louvre continues to recover from last month’s high-profile heist of crown jewels valued at over $100 million. The museum’s Sully wing is a key focus of its ambitious renovation plans, which were unveiled earlier this year.
分类： society
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High-speed rail linking China’s old revolutionary base with Xi’an begins trial operation
A groundbreaking high-speed railway connecting Xi’an, the capital of Shaanxi province, with Yan’an, a city of immense historical significance, has officially entered its trial operation phase. This marks a pivotal step toward the full operational launch of the 299.8-kilometer line, designed to travel at speeds of up to 350 kilometers per hour. The trial run began on Monday morning with the departure of test train 55302 from Xi’an, transitioning from joint debugging and testing to operational simulations. Once fully operational, the railway will reduce travel time between the two cities from 2.5 hours to approximately one hour. Yan’an, known as the revolutionary base of the Communist Party of China from 1937 to 1947, holds a special place in the nation’s history. This project not only enhances regional connectivity but also underscores the modernization of transportation infrastructure in northern Shaanxi. The high-speed rail is expected to boost economic development, tourism, and cultural exchange in the region, further integrating Yan’an into the broader national network.
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What to know about abductions of schoolchildren in Nigeria
In a troubling development, Nigeria has reported yet another abduction of schoolchildren in its volatile northern region, specifically in Kebbi state. The perpetrators of this latest incident remain unidentified, but it underscores the persistent insecurity plaguing Africa’s most populous nation. This pattern of kidnappings, which has become a grim hallmark of Nigeria’s northern crisis, has affected both children and adults, transcending religious and ethnic divides. The notorious Boko Haram insurgency, responsible for the mass abduction of 276 Chibok schoolgirls in 2014, has been a significant player in this crisis. However, other armed groups, including bandits motivated by financial gain, have also been active. Since the Chibok tragedy, over 1,500 students have been abducted, highlighting the ongoing vulnerability of educational institutions in the region. Boko Haram, which seeks to impose an Islamic state and rejects Western education, has seen a resurgence this year, with many of its fighters now aligned with an Islamic State affiliate. These groups continue to recruit vulnerable youth in a region where Nigerian authorities and humanitarian organizations struggle to maintain safety. Meanwhile, bandits, often former herders turned armed militants, target schools for ransom, exploiting the under-policed and vast landscape. The U.S.-backed Africa Center for Strategic Studies has noted that these bandits are responsible for a significant number of deaths in the northwest, rivaling the impact of Boko Haram and its affiliates in the northeast. Despite military efforts, including airstrikes and special operations, Islamic extremists have repeatedly overrun military outposts and raided civilian communities. In response to the escalating crisis, President Bola Tinubu recently replaced Nigeria’s security chiefs, and the U.S. government approved a $346 million arms sale to bolster Nigeria’s counterinsurgency efforts. However, the situation remains dire, with growing concerns about the links between bandits and militant groups, further complicating the security landscape.
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Pope could soon decide fate of Spain bishop accused of abuse, under investigation by church
In a significant development within the Spanish Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV is reportedly considering the resignation of Bishop Rafael Zornoza of Cádiz, who is currently under investigation for alleged sexual abuse of a young seminarian in the 1990s. The announcement was made by Archbishop Luis Javier Argüello García, head of the Spanish Catholic Bishops Conference, during a press briefing in St. Peter’s Square on Monday. The case marks the first publicly known investigation of a Spanish bishop accused of abuse, as the church grapples with its history of misconduct and cover-ups. The diocese of Cádiz has denied the allegations but confirmed that a canonical investigation is underway by the church court in Madrid, known as the Rota. Bishop Zornoza, 76, who is battling an aggressive form of cancer, has temporarily suspended his duties to cooperate with the investigation. The accusations, which date back nearly three decades, involve claims that Zornoza abused a former seminarian from the ages of 14 to 21 while serving as a priest and director of the diocesan seminary in Getafe. The victim’s letter to the Vatican detailed disturbing accounts of abuse, including inappropriate physical contact and psychological manipulation. Archbishop Argüello emphasized the importance of both the victim’s right to come forward and the presumption of innocence for the accused. Zornoza had previously offered his resignation upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 75, but it was not immediately accepted. The case has drawn attention to the broader issue of abuse within the Spanish Catholic Church, which has faced increasing scrutiny in recent years. In 2023, Spain’s first official probe into church abuse suggested that the number of victims could be in the hundreds of thousands. The Spanish Catholic bishops have since launched a compensation plan for victims, following government pressure to address the crisis.
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Honey Singh on the rise: Indian rapper is back with a global tour and renewed life
In celebration of the 54th Eid Al Etihad, the Sharjah government has announced a five-day paid holiday for its employees. The holiday, which underscores the UAE’s commitment to honoring national unity and cultural heritage, will allow workers to fully participate in the festivities. Additionally, the UAE Ministry of Education has declared a holiday for both public and private schools, ensuring that students and educators alike can join in the commemorations. This move reflects the nation’s emphasis on fostering a sense of community and shared identity during this significant occasion. The holiday period is expected to boost local tourism and family gatherings, further enhancing the festive spirit across the Emirates.
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National Day holiday: UAE announces 4-day Eid Al Etihad break for public sector
In celebration of the 54th Eid Al Etihad, the Sharjah government has announced a five-day paid holiday for its employees, marking a significant gesture of appreciation and recognition of the national occasion. The holiday period is set to provide government workers with an extended break to partake in festivities and spend quality time with their families. Simultaneously, the UAE Ministry of Education has declared a nationwide holiday for both public and private schools, ensuring that students and educators alike can join in the commemorative activities. This dual announcement underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering a sense of unity and national pride among its citizens. The 54th Eid Al Etihad, which commemorates the unification of the Emirates, holds profound historical and cultural significance, and the extended holiday period is expected to enhance public participation in the celebrations. The decision reflects the government’s dedication to promoting work-life balance and acknowledging the importance of national milestones in shaping the country’s identity.
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Single father’s egg-fried rice stall becomes campus hit in Jilin
A modest egg-fried rice stall near Jilin Normal University in Siping, Jilin province, has recently become a sensation among students. The stall, run by middle-aged single father Li Bin, has garnered attention for its delicious and affordable offerings. Li, who prepares the dish with the same care he would for his own daughter, emphasizes the importance of providing quality food to the students. His dedication and culinary skills have turned the stall into a beloved campus hotspot. The heartwarming story of Li’s commitment to his craft and his customers has resonated widely, showcasing the impact of small businesses in fostering community connections.
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‘Shock, happiness’: How 17-year-old Elliott Bathe got top role in Dubai Student Council
In a significant move to celebrate the 54th Eid Al Etihad, the government of Sharjah has announced a five-day paid holiday for its employees. This decision underscores the emirate’s commitment to fostering a work-life balance and honoring national traditions. Additionally, the UAE Ministry of Education has declared a holiday for both public and private schools across the country, allowing students and educators to partake in the festivities. Eid Al Etihad, marking the unification of the UAE, is a pivotal occasion that unites citizens in celebration of their shared heritage and progress. The extended holiday period is expected to boost morale, encourage family gatherings, and stimulate local tourism and commerce. This dual announcement reflects the UAE’s dedication to preserving cultural values while enhancing the well-being of its workforce and younger generation.
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Dubai: Multi-vehicle crash on Al Maktoum Airport Road; broken car parts swept by motorists
A significant multi-vehicle collision occurred on Monday morning along Al Maktoum Airport Road in Dubai, causing substantial delays for motorists and visitors on the first day of the Dubai Airshow. The incident, which involved several vehicles, left an overturned van and other damaged cars scattered on the roadside. Witnesses reported that glass and broken car parts were strewn across the road, prompting concerned motorists to assist affected drivers and passengers by clearing debris. Despite the chaos, there have been no immediate reports of injuries. The crash occurred during a busy period, as the area was bustling with traffic due to the ongoing airshow. Authorities have yet to release detailed information about the cause of the accident or the extent of the damage. The incident highlights the challenges of managing traffic safety in high-density urban areas, especially during major events.
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Watch: Hundreds of sheep cross historic German city during annual tradition
On Sunday, the historic city of Nuremberg witnessed a unique and charming spectacle as approximately 600 sheep paraded through its ancient streets. This annual event, deeply rooted in local tradition, has grown into a beloved celebration that attracts both residents and tourists alike. The sight of the flock navigating the cobblestone pathways of the city’s historic center offered a picturesque blend of rural heritage and urban charm. The tradition, which dates back several years, serves as a reminder of Nuremberg’s agricultural past while fostering community spirit. Spectators lined the streets, capturing the moment on cameras and smartphones, as the sheep moved gracefully under the watchful eyes of shepherds. The event not only highlights the city’s cultural richness but also underscores the importance of preserving such unique customs in modern times.