Louvre Museum Closes Due to Ongoing Employee Strike

The Louvre, one of Paris’ most iconic attractions, has closed its doors to visitors around the globe as of Monday. This unexpected shutdown is a result of a prolonged employee strike that started last summer, which intensified following a significant robbery in October.

“Dear visitors, due to social movements, the Louvre Museum will be exceptionally closed today,” read a notice posted on the museum’s website. It continues, “Visitors who booked tickets for today will be automatically refunded. No action is required on your part. Thank you for your understanding.”

Local sources indicate that staff members have participated in multiple strikes throughout this year, primarily focusing on issues related to pay and working conditions.

In 2024, the Louvre welcomed about 8.7 million guests, with 77% of them traveling from abroad. One of the museum’s main draws is the famous Mona Lisa, located in the expansive Salle de Zeta, which typically attracts around 20,000 visitors daily.

In a recent change, starting January 14, foreign visitors from outside the European Union will have to pay an additional $12 on top of regular ticket prices. This hike means tickets for non-EU guests have increased from $25 to $37, likely in response to new security measures and technology costs.

The Louvre has been proactive about addressing security following an alarming incident on October 19, when a group of four thieves boldly stole eight pieces of jewelry valued at an astonishing 88 million euros (roughly $102 million). Plans are in place to install around 100 new surveillance cameras by the end of 2026 as part of over 20 emergency actions, including appointing a new security coordinator.