Louvre Museum Closed After Robbery; Jewelry Reportedly Stolen
The Louvre Museum in Paris was closed today, October 19, 2025, following a robbery that occurred Sunday morning as the museum was opening, according to France’s culture minister.
Rachida Dati announced the closure on X, stating she was on site as police launched an investigation. French media reports indicate that three masked individuals gained access to the Apollo Gallery – home to remnants of France’s crown jewels – using a freight lift that was undergoing renovation. The gallery, situated along the River Seine, was reportedly breached after the thieves broke windows, and they escaped on motor scooters, allegedly wielding chainsaws during the incident.
The museum confirmed the closure “for exceptional reasons” without providing specific details. The value of the stolen jewelry has not yet been determined. This incident raises concerns about security at one of the world’s most iconic cultural institutions, which welcomes millions of visitors annually and houses irreplaceable artworks like the Mona Lisa.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the robbery and assess the full extent of the losses. Minister Dati has stated that a full review of security protocols will be undertaken to prevent similar incidents, as reported by RFI.
