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The Louvre Museum has taken significant steps to bolster its security following a daring heist on October 19, where four thieves managed to escape with jewels valued at $102 million. This morning, iron bars were installed on a French window in the Apollo Gallery, marking one of several new security measures. This window was infamously used as the entry point during the heist. The installation was shared on X, along with a video showcasing the efforts.
In response to the break-in, the Louvre remained closed for the day as workers, using a lift, began the installation before dawn. Samuel Lasnel from the Grima-Nacelles lift company explained, “We have a long-standing relationship with the Louvre, having worked on both the interior and exterior, including the iconic pyramid.”
Public outcry followed the security breach, prompting the Louvre to implement additional protective practices. These include the presence of national police at a mobile base near the Carrousel roundabout and the introduction of distancing devices on the Quai François Mitterrand, adjacent to the Apollo Gallery. In 2026, the museum plans to install 100 new cameras around its perimeter.
This security overhaul is part of a $92 million initiative designed to improve safety and equipment over time. The Louvre is also increasing its budget for staff training by 20% and forming a security steering committee. The museum is yet to announce the appointment of a new “Security Coordinator” who will report to the president, Laurence des Cars.
To support these security upgrades, ticket prices for non-EU visitors will rise by 45% to $37 starting January 14, 2026. The museum anticipates this will generate additional revenue between $17.38 million and $23.17 million.
This proactive approach aims to restore public confidence following revelations of past security oversights. A 2018 audit, funded by Van Cleef and Arpels, had already warned of vulnerabilities in the balcony used by the thieves. Jean-Luc Martinez, the museum’s director at the time, failed to act on these warnings, and the area lacked sufficient surveillance.
Additional investigations revealed that the museum’s security control room was not equipped with adequate screens to monitor all feeds simultaneously, giving the thieves a critical advantage. Despite these lapses, Des Cars was asked to remain in her position after offering to resign, as she was not fully briefed on the issues upon her appointment in 2021.
“The Louvre is committed to learning from the events of October 19 and is dedicated to strengthening its security framework,” the museum stated on X. While the four thieves have been arrested, the stolen items, including crowns, earrings, a brooch, and an emerald necklace once owned by Empress Marie-Louise, remain missing.
