 "France: Robbery at Paris's Louvre Museum forces sudden closure; investigation under way. Image: AI generated.")
A robbery was reported at the Louvre Museum in Paris on Sunday, leading to the immediate closure of the world-famous institution.
French Culture Minister Rachida Dati confirmed the incident in a post on social media, writing, “A robbery took place this morning at the opening of the Louvre Museum. No injuries reported. I’m on site with museum staff and police. Investigations are under way.”
The museum announced it would remain closed “for exceptional reasons.” AFP reported that the thieves reportedly fled with jewellery, though officials have not yet confirmed what was stolen.
A member of Dati’s team told AFP that at least one person had entered the museum.
The Louvre, home to masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, remains one of the most visited museums in the world.
The Louvre, once the royal palace of French kings before Louis XIV moved the court to Versailles, is now one of the world’s most famous museums. It drew nine million visitors last year, making it the most visited museum in the world.