According to Artnet, on December 23, the museum closed for a day to enhance security. Workers used a lift to access the Apollo gallery window, which was the entry point for thieves who stole French royal jewels on October 19. The thieves used a truck equipped with a ladder to climb onto a second-floor balcony, break a window, and enter the museum. The daylight robbery lasted approximately seven minutes.

Workers install security bars outside the Apollo gallery on the morning of December 23. Video: X/@MuseeLouvre

On X, the Louvre also announced other security measures, including the establishment of a mobile police outpost in front of the glass pyramid since October 19. Intrusion prevention devices have also been placed along Quai François Mitterrand, where the Apollo gallery is located. By 2026, management plans to install 100 more outdoor security cameras.

The implementation of these measures is part of the initial phase of the museum's $92 million infrastructure restoration and security upgrade plan, announced by Louvre management in early November. They also increased the staff training budget by 20% and established a security steering committee.

Artnet reported that the public will contribute to the costs. From January 14, 2026, admission prices will increase by 45% for non-European Union citizens, to about $37 (currently over VND 970,000). Thanks to this, the museum's revenue is expected to increase from $17.38 million to $23.17 million.

The Louvre Museum enhances protective measures after the theft. Photo: AFP

The theft drew criticism of the museum's security protocols. In 2018, an audit funded by Van Cleef & Arpels warned the Louvre that the Apollo gallery balcony was vulnerable to intrusion. However, then-director Jean-Luc Martinez did not address the issue. Before the robbery, this area also lacked cameras.

Recent investigations revealed that the Louvre's security control room did not have enough monitors to simultaneously track all surveillance feeds. This allowed the thieves more time to escape. After these vulnerabilities were exposed, museum president Laurence des Cars offered to resign. However, the board of directors and French officials persuaded her to stay, citing that she had not been fully informed of security shortcomings when appointed in 2021.

Empress Eugenie’s crown, wife of King Napoleon III, was found outside the museum, dropped by the thieves during their escape. Photo: Louvre

In a post on X, a museum representative stated that the Louvre had learned from the theft and would continue to accelerate renovations and enhance protection. French authorities have arrested eight suspects linked to the case, but the stolen items have not yet been recovered.

The Louvre, located in Paris, is one of the world's most renowned museums and a source of national pride for the French people. Initially a fortress built in 1190, it was transformed into a Renaissance palace and later became a museum, opening its doors on August 10, 1793.

By Phuong Thao (via Artnet)