The director of the Louvre museum announced plans to enhance security measures following a recent jewel heist. Laurence des Cars stated that approximately 100 new surveillance cameras will be operational by the end of next year, alongside anti-intrusion systems set to be installed within a fortnight.
Describing the security enhancements as tools to deter intruders from approaching the museum buildings, des Cars emphasized the importance of safeguarding the museum’s surroundings. These emergency measures are part of a series of over 20 security upgrades, including the introduction of a security coordinator role, which has already been advertised.
The recent jewel theft, where thieves broke into the Apollo Gallery and stole valuable crown jewels worth 88 million euros, highlighted vulnerabilities in the museum’s security. Des Cars revealed that the robbers used disc cutters intended for concrete to breach the display cases, a method not previously considered when the cases were last replaced in 2019.
Footage from museum cameras showed that the display cases remained intact during the robbery, demonstrating the difficulty faced by the thieves. Des Cars stressed that improving security is a key focus of the “Louvre New Renaissance” plan, a comprehensive initiative aimed at modernizing infrastructure, managing overcrowding, and creating a dedicated gallery for the Mona Lisa by 2031.
Facing challenges from excessive tourism, the Louvre has limited daily visitor numbers to 30,000 in recent years, despite the initial goal of welcoming four million visitors annually. With visitor numbers already exceeding eight million this year, des Cars highlighted the need to update outdated equipment that has been in use for over four decades.
In response to structural concerns, the Louvre temporarily closed some offices and a public gallery. The measures reflect the museum’s commitment to enhancing security and preserving its cultural treasures.
