Louvre faces urgent modernization needs

One year after a high-profile theft at the Louvre, its president Christophe Leribault has stressed the need for major renovations and modernization to prevent the museum from closing to the public. The incident, which occurred on October 19, 2025, revealed significant security flaws and has prompted ongoing efforts to improve the museum’s infrastructure. Leribault described the Louvre as "in very poor condition" and "completely clogged up," citing challenges from its aging structure and high visitor numbers.

Security upgrades underway

Since the theft, the Louvre has introduced new security measures, including "new cameras," "new protective devices such as bollards and anti-ram barriers," and has begun renovations around the museum’s perimeter. A new security coordinator joined the team in July. Leribault noted that the museum has already started repairs on escalators, window frames, lighting systems, ceilings, and air conditioning, while some collections, such as those in the Campana Gallery, have been temporarily relocated for renovations.

Modernization plan seeks funding

The Louvre's modernization plan, called Louvre - Nouvelle Renaissance, is estimated to cost one billion euros. Leribault stated that the museum is seeking 360 million euros from patrons both in France and abroad. Although no formal commitments have been signed yet, foreign patrons have shown interest in supporting the project. Leribault mentioned that the museum might consider increasing entry fees "within very reasonable limits," as non-European visitors have already seen a price increase from 22 to 32 euros this year.

Renovation plan includes new spaces

The renovation plan includes the creation of a new entrance and the development of a new department for Byzantine and Eastern Christian art. Leribault expects the major entrance colonnade and new exhibition spaces to be operational in five to six years, with the full renovation taking between twelve to fifteen years. The Louvre will remain open in phases during the renovation.

Project deemed a national priority

Leribault emphasized that the project is a "national issue" and warned that if the Louvre is not repaired, adapted, and transformed, it will quickly lose its standing and may eventually have to close its doors to the public, which would be a disaster.