Louvre employees closed the museum on Monday, protesting working conditions and staff shortages.
Union leaders said 400 workers voted unanimously to strike, though the duration remains uncertain.
Strikers blocked the glass pyramid entrance with flags, banners, and placards, preventing visitors from entering.
The museum posted a notice online calling the closure “exceptional” and promised ticket refunds.
Employees may meet Wednesday to decide whether to extend the strike or return to work.
Visitors express disappointment and understanding
Tourists arriving at the Louvre reacted with frustration and sadness.
Lindsey Hall from Sacramento, California, said she had eagerly anticipated experiencing the museum’s collection.
She described the Louvre as “an epic collection of art every person should see at least once.”
Hall said she understood how the daily pressures of museum work could frustrate employees.
Staff highlight security gaps and staffing concerns
Unions held talks last week with Culture Minister Rachida Dati but saw no resolution.
Alexis Fritche of CFDT said visiting the museum had become “an obstacle course” for both staff and visitors.
Employees cited the October jewellery heist as proof that overcrowding and understaffing threaten security and working conditions.
Police later arrested all four suspects accused of stealing €88 million in crown jewels.
Investigators blamed broken cameras, outdated equipment, understaffed control rooms, and poor coordination for the thieves’ escape.
Union leaders demanded more security staff, stable funding, improved working conditions, and leadership that listens.
CGT union’s Yvan Navarro said visitor numbers rise while staff numbers and salaries remain stagnant.
He called Monday “a day of anger” after years of under-resourcing.
Unions warned the Louvre faces a crisis unless reforms occur.
The Culture Ministry assigned Philippe Jost to propose a major reorganisation of the museum.
Jost will work with Louvre director Laurence des Cars and submit recommendations by the end of February.
Des Cars previously called the jewellery heist “a terrible failure” and stressed urgent reforms are needed.
