Workers at the Louvre shut the museum on Monday to protest poor working conditions and staffing shortages.
Labour leaders said 400 employees voted unanimously to strike, though they have not yet decided whether the action will continue.
Strikers blocked the iconic glass pyramid with banners, flags, and placards, forcing the museum to cancel public access.
The Louvre posted an update online calling the closure “exceptional” and promised refunds to all ticket holders.
Since the museum normally closes on Tuesdays, employees may meet Wednesday to decide whether to return or continue striking.
Visitors express disappointment and understanding
Tourists arriving at the museum expressed frustration at the sudden closure.
Lindsey Hall from Sacramento said she had been planning to explore the Louvre’s vast art and artefacts collection with a friend.
She called the museum “one of those life experiences you crave” but said she understood staff pressures.
Hall said daily work in crowded conditions can make staff life extremely challenging, explaining why employees protested.
Many other visitors expressed sympathy for the workers while lamenting lost opportunities to visit a world-renowned cultural landmark.
Security failures and staffing shortages fuel tensions
Union leaders said last week’s talks with Culture Minister Rachida Dati failed to address core concerns.
Alexis Fritche of the CFDT described visiting the Louvre as “an obstacle course” because staff face overcrowding and limited support.
Staff pointed to the October jewellery heist as proof that understaffing undermines security and working conditions.
Police later arrested four suspects accused of stealing €88 million worth of crown jewels using a basket lift and broken displays.
A Senate inquiry blamed broken cameras, outdated equipment, and poorly coordinated security for allowing the thieves to escape by seconds.
The CFDT demanded more security staff, stable budgets, and leadership that listens to employees.
CGT representative Yvan Navarro noted staff numbers fell while visitor numbers and ticket prices rose.
He said rising costs without increasing pay or personnel triggered widespread frustration and anger among workers.
Unions warned the Louvre faces a “crisis” without adequate resources and improved conditions.
The French Culture Ministry appointed Philippe Jost to lead a major Louvre reorganisation, with recommendations due by February.
Jost will work alongside director Laurence des Cars, who described the heist as a “terrible failure.”
