The Louvre, one of the world’s most visited museums, saw its priceless 19th-century crown jewels stolen in just seven minutes.
Thieves smashed an upstairs window and escaped on scooters with eight invaluable pieces, shocking world and raising urgent questions about museum security.
How did the theft unfold?
The robbery happened on Sunday morning (19 October), between 09:30 and 09:40 local time, shortly after the museum opened.
Four masked thieves used a vehicle-mounted mechanical lift to reach an upper window leading into the Galerie d’Apollon (Apollo Gallery), near the Seine River.
Two of them cut through the glass panes with battery-powered tools and entered the gallery.
They threatened the guards, who evacuated visitors from area, and stole items from two display cases.
A preliminary report revealed that one in three rooms in the targeted area had no CCTV cameras, making the theft easier.
The gang attempted to set fire to their vehicle outside but were stopped by museum staff.
What jewels were stolen?
The Culture Ministry confirmed that eight pieces were stolen, including a tiara, necklace, and earring from the sapphire set of Queen Marie-Amélie and Queen Hortense.
An emerald necklace and matching earrings from the Marie-Louise set, the reliquary brooch, and a tiara and large bodice knot (brooch) belonging to Empress Eugénie were also part of the loot.
The crown of Empress Eugénie was later found outside the museum, dropped during the escape.
These jewels, adorned with diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires, are considered priceless and of immense heritage value, representing France’s cultural history.
How professional was the robbery?
Authorities described the thieves as experienced, executing a carefully planned operation that lasted less than ten minutes. The robbers were unarmed but highly organised, escaping on two scooters.
Approximately 60 investigators are handling the case, with prosecutors suggesting that the heist may have been commissioned by a criminal organisation.
They also said the jewels would possibly be resold or dismantled for precious materials.
Museum security and reopening
The Louvre remains closed indefinitely, with refunds offered to visitors who booked tickets.
Police and security personnel are stationed around the museum’s entrances, and metal barriers have been installed.
The museum could reopen Wednesday (22 October) at the earliest, as it is normally closed on Tuesdays.
Public reaction
The theft sparked outrage in France. President Emmanuel Macron called it “an attack on our history,” while opposition politicians called it an intolerable humiliation.
Experts warn that if the jewels are dismantled, recovery could be extremely difficult.
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