The Louvre Museum in Paris remained closed on Monday following a brazen daylight theft of historic Napoleonic-era jewels, prompting a nationwide reassessment of security measures at cultural institutions. The audacious heist, which unfolded just 250 meters from the iconic Mona Lisa, involved thieves using a basket lift to scale the museum’s facade, forcing entry through a window, and smashing display cases to steal priceless artifacts. The robbery, lasting less than eight minutes, occurred shortly after the museum opened, with visitors already inside, marking one of the most high-profile museum thefts in recent memory.
French officials confirmed that eight objects, including a sapphire diadem, necklaces, earrings, and a reliquary brooch linked to 19th-century French queens and Empress Marie-Louise, were stolen. One item, Empress Eugénie’s imperial crown adorned with over 1,300 diamonds, was later recovered outside the museum. Culture Minister Rachida Dati described the operation as highly professional, with thieves demonstrating precise knowledge of their targets.
Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin acknowledged significant security lapses, questioning why windows were unsecured and a basket lift was accessible on a public road. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez has ordered an immediate review of security protocols at cultural sites across France. Meanwhile, the Louvre’s staff informed visitors of the closure and promised refunds for pre-booked tickets.
The incident has cast a spotlight on the museum’s ongoing ‘Louvre New Renaissance’ plan, a 700-million-euro initiative launched earlier this year to modernize infrastructure and enhance security. Dati emphasized that the museum, originally designed for far fewer visitors, faces unique challenges in safeguarding its treasures. Investigations are ongoing, with evidence including motorcycles and license plates recovered from the scene.