The Louvre Museum has reopened just three days after a dramatic jewel heist that captivated both France and the world. President Emmanuel Macron has called for an acceleration of security measures at the museum following the incident.
Louvre Museum Reopens After Heist
On Wednesday morning, the Louvre welcomed visitors back at 9 AM local time. This reopening came after a temporary closure due to the theft, which took place on Sunday. Many tourists, like Fanny from Montpellier, expressed relief at the museum’s reopening, having made prior reservations.
Details of the Heist
The heist involved the theft of valuable jewelry, with a total estimated worth of €88 million (approximately $144 million CAD). This incident is regarded as one of the most significant art thefts in recent decades.
- Jewels stolen included the diadem of Empress Eugénie and a sapphire necklace associated with Marie Amélie.
- The theft has triggered a political and media storm about the security of notable art collections.
Investigation Progress
The investigation is actively progressing, with over 100 detectives assigned to the case, according to Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez. The focus is on apprehending the four individuals responsible for the heist.
Minister Nuñez stated, “I have complete confidence that we will find the perpetrators,” emphasizing the intensity of the investigation.
Security Concerns and Accountability
Culture Minister Rachida Dati has stated that there was no internal security breach within the museum. However, she acknowledged weaknesses in external security that allowed intruders to use a lift and access the museum through a window.
In a response to the incident, Louvre director Laurence des Cars, who took over in May 2021, is set to testify before the Senate’s culture committee. Concerns over museum security have garnered significant attention, with calls for improvements acknowledged even by Dati.
Future Security Measures
The Louvre, known as the most visited museum globally, received about nine million visitors in 2024, with 80% being international tourists. In light of the recent heist, both Macron and officials are analyzing current security protocols and discussing necessary upgrades.
While the museum has reopened, several galleries, including the one housing the royal gem collection, remain closed as the investigation continues.
According to reports, the Court of Accounts has noted a delay in implementing necessary security equipment for protecting the artworks at the Louvre.
This planted issue of museum security is not new, highlighting longstanding concerns that have come to the forefront following this high-profile theft.
