Water Leak Damages Artwork at the Louvre
Paris – A recent water leak at the Louvre Museum has caused damage to several hundred pieces in its Egyptian collection. The leak, discovered on November 26, has raised alarms about the museum’s infrastructure, particularly following an earlier theft that drew attention to its security vulnerabilities.
Extent of the Damage
According to Francis Steinbock, the museum’s deputy administrator, between 300 and 400 works were affected. These items include valuable research materials such as “Egyptology journals” and “scientific documentation” utilized by historians and researchers. While the items are important for academic purposes, Steinbock emphasized that they are not irreplaceable, noting that the damaged works date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
No Heritage Artifacts Affected
Steinbock reassured the public that none of the museum’s heritage artifacts sustained damage. “At this stage, we have no irreparable and definitive losses in these collections,” he explained, indicating that the museum is taking measures to restore the damaged materials.
Background Context
This leak follows a high-profile theft that occurred in October, when a group of four criminals executed a heist in broad daylight at the Louvre. Their audacious act resulted in the theft of jewelry valued at approximately $102 million, all within a mere seven minutes, further igniting concerns about the museum’s aging infrastructure.
Response to the Heist
Following the theft, at least five arrests have been made; however, the stolen jewels remain missing. In response to these security concerns, the museum’s senior officials announced the implementation of 20 “emergency measures” in November to enhance safety protocols, although specific details about these measures have not been disclosed.
Investigation into Water Leak
The Louvre has initiated an internal investigation concerning the water leak, which was attributed to the accidental opening of a valve in the heating and ventilation system. This mishap led to water seeping through the ceiling of the Mollien wing where the documents were stored. According to the museum administrator, the “completely obsolete” heating system has been out of service for months and is scheduled for replacement starting in September 2026.
Restoration Plans
The damaged works will undergo an extensive restoration process: they will be dried, sent to a bookbinder for repair, and subsequently returned to their place on the shelves. This proactive approach underlines the museum’s commitment to preserving its collections.
Ticket Price Increase for Non-EU Visitors
In a move aimed at bolstering funding for necessary structural improvements, the Louvre announced a price increase for admission tickets for most non-EU visitors. Henceforth, tourists from the U.S., the UK, China, and other nations will need to pay 32 euros (approximately $37) to enter the museum. The museum estimates that this 45% price hike could generate up to $23 million annually to support ongoing improvements.
A Global Cultural Landmark
The Louvre remains the world’s most-visited museum, attracting 8.7 million visitors in 2024, with a significant 69% of those coming from countries outside the European Union. As one of the leading cultural institutions globally, the Louvre continues to balance the preservation of its remarkable collections with the pressing need for infrastructural upgrades.
