Workers at the Louvre shut down the museum on Monday after launching a strike over working conditions, staffing and security concerns. The walkout closed the world’s most visited museum and came just weeks after a highly embarrassing jewellery heist. Union leaders said all staff present backed the strike, although they have not yet decided whether action will continue beyond one day.
The CFDT union said around 400 employees voted unanimously during a morning meeting. Striking workers gathered at the glass pyramid entrance, holding banners and blocking access for visitors. The Louvre confirmed the closure on its website, described it as exceptional and said it would refund all ticket holders. The museum normally closes on Tuesdays, giving workers time to meet again on Wednesday to decide their next move.
Visitors disappointed but sympathetic
Tourists arriving at the museum reacted with frustration and disappointment. Lindsey Hall, who travelled from Sacramento, California, said she had looked forward to visiting for years. She described the Louvre as a life experience and said its vast collection of art felt essential to see at least once. At the same time, she said she understood the pressure staff face working in such a crowded environment day after day.
Many visitors echoed similar feelings, expressing sympathy for workers while lamenting missed plans. The strike left thousands unable to access one of Paris’s biggest attractions during a busy travel period.
Security failures and staffing cuts drive tensions
Union leaders said recent talks with Culture Minister Rachida Dati failed to address core issues, including staffing shortages and long-term funding. Alexis Fritche of the CFDT said visiting the Louvre has become an “obstacle course,” with overcrowding and limited staff creating stress for both workers and visitors.
Concerns intensified after a daylight jewellery heist in October, when thieves stole €88 million worth of crown jewels. Investigators later said broken cameras, outdated equipment and understaffed control rooms allowed the suspects to escape by seconds. Police later arrested four suspects linked to the crime.
Unions say visitor numbers and ticket prices continue to rise, while staff numbers and salaries do not. CGT union official Yvan Navarro said frustration reached a breaking point after years of imbalance. Unions have warned the government that the Louvre faces a serious crisis unless conditions improve.
The Culture Ministry has appointed Philippe Jost, who led Notre Dame’s post-fire reconstruction, to propose a major reorganisation of the museum. He will work with Louvre director Laurence des Cars and deliver recommendations by the end of February.
