Louvre Under Fire for Neglecting Security Before Jewel Heist

Fri Nov 07 2025 02:35:38 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In light of a recent major theft, the Louvre faces heavy criticism for prioritizing art purchases over essential security measures.

The Louvre Museum is facing backlash after a report revealed its choice to invest significantly in new artworks and exhibitions, while neglecting security infrastructure. Following the daring theft of €88 million worth of jewels from the museum, critics have pointed out that this decision-making could have led to the heist.

Three weeks after the spectacular jewel theft at the Louvre, the museum has been heavily criticised for neglecting security.

The Court of Auditors report, drawn up before the heist, found that for years managers had preferred to invest in new artworks and exhibitions rather than basic upkeep and protection.

Let no-one be mistaken: the theft of the crown jewels is a resounding wake-up call, said the court's president, Pierre Moscovici.

On Sunday, October 19, thieves broke into the Louvre's Apollo Gallery, using an angle-grinder to open display cases, making off with €88 million (£78 million) of jewels that once belonged to 19th-Century queens and empresses.

The report states that between 2018 and 2024, the Louvre spent €105.4 million on artwork purchases and €63.5 million for exhibition spaces, but only €26.7 million on maintenance and €59.5 million on restoring the palace building.

The findings resonate with remarks from Culture Minister Rachida Dati, who claimed that museum managers had grossly underestimated intrusion risks.

The Louvre's ambitious New Renaissance project, which aimed to enhance visitor experiences, may now be jeopardized due to funding mismanagement. Planned expansions and renovations reportedly exceed budget expectations, soaring to €1.15 billion.

In response, the Louvre stated it accepts most of the audit recommendations but insisted the court misjudged its efforts toward security.