Thieves executed a daring heist at the Louvre Museum in Paris, stealing priceless jewelry in less than seven minutes. The robbers used disc cutters to breach the museum’s glass panes and escaped on motorbikes, according to French officials. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez described the incident as a ‘major robbery,’ emphasizing the unprecedented nature of the security breach.
The museum, which houses over 33,000 artworks including iconic pieces like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, remained closed for the day. Officials are investigating the stolen items, which reportedly included nine pieces from the Napoleon and Empress jewelry collection. A crown believed to belong to Empress Eugénie was found broken outside the museum.
French officials have confirmed that the thieves entered the museum through a construction site along the Seine River, where they used a freight elevator to access the Apollo Gallery. This area is known to house part of the French Crown Jewels, making the theft even more significant. The stolen items, valued at millions, are not only of immense historical importance but also hold great cultural significance.
French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez stated during a press conference that the investigation is ongoing and that authorities are compiling a detailed list of the stolen items. ‘Beyond their market value, these items have inestimable heritage and historical value,’ said the ministry in a statement, highlighting the importance of preserving cultural artifacts for future generations.
The Louvre Museum’s closure for the day has raised concerns among visitors and cultural experts about the security of such iconic landmarks. With the museum’s vast collection, which spans antiquities, sculpture, and painting, the theft has sparked a broader discussion on the need for enhanced security measures at world-class institutions.
Meanwhile, the incident has also intensified fears of increasing thefts targeting cultural sites, especially in light of recent similar incidents such as the stolen ancient painting from a ‘cursed’ tomb in Egypt. This underscores the vulnerability of such sites and raises questions about the effectiveness of current security protocols.
The Associated Press contributed to this report, providing additional details about the scale and significance of the heist. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to identify the suspects and recover the stolen items, which could have far-reaching implications for both the museum and the broader cultural preservation efforts.