The Louvre Museum in Paris has announced that starting January 14, visitors from outside the European Economic Area will pay 45% more for entry to support its ambitious renovation project. This decision comes as the museum continues to recover from a high-profile theft in October, during which thieves stole about $10,000,000 worth of jewelry. The increased fees are part of a broader strategy to fund the extensive restoration and modernization of the museum’s infrastructure, which includes upgrades to security systems and visitor facilities.
The museum’s management emphasized that the price hike is a temporary measure to ensure the long-term preservation and accessibility of its priceless art collection. However, the decision has sparked debate among visitors and cultural organizations, with some expressing concerns about the financial burden on international tourists. In response to the theft, the Louvre has also launched a comprehensive security overhaul, including the installation of advanced surveillance systems and collaboration with international law enforcement agencies to prevent future incidents.