The Louvre Heist: A Bold Jewelry Theft Shocks France

Mon Oct 20 2025 18:35:21 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The Louvre Museum in Paris was targeted in a daring daytime robbery, leading to the theft of priceless royal jewelry. Police are investigating.

In a shocking incident, four thieves executed a brazen heist at the Louvre Museum during daylight hours, stealing eight priceless pieces of jewelry, including items belonging to Empress Eugénie and other historical figures. The robbery has raised serious security concerns and led to widespread outrage across France, with calls for a thorough investigation into the museum's safety protocols.

The Louvre Museum in Paris is still closed on Monday while police investigate a brazen heist which targeted France's priceless crown jewels. Thieves wielding power tools broke into the world's most visited museum in broad daylight, before escaping on scooters with eight extremely valuable items of jewellery.

How did the theft unfold?

The robbery happened on Sunday between 09:30 and 09:40 local time (08:30 and 08:40 BST), shortly after the museum opened to visitors. Four thieves used a vehicle-mounted mechanical lift to access the Galerie d'Apollon via a balcony close to the River Seine. Pictures from the scene showed a vehicle-mounted ladder leading up to a first-floor window. Two of the thieves cut through glass panes with a battery-powered disc cutter and entered the museum. They then threatened the guards, who evacuated the premises, and stole items from two glass display cases. A preliminary report has revealed that one in three rooms in the area of the museum raided had no CCTV cameras, according to French media.

What jewels were stolen?

According to the authorities, eight items were taken, including diadems (a jewelled headband), necklaces, earrings, and brooches. All are from the 19th century and once belonged to French royalty or imperial rulers. The stolen items included a tiara and brooch belonging to Empress Eugénie and an emerald necklace from Empress Marie Louise. Authorities described the stolen jewels as priceless and of immeasurable heritage value. Notably, two items, including Empress Eugénie's crown, were later found near the museum.

When will the Louvre reopen?

The Louvre remains closed while investigations into the robbery continue. Visitors who had pre-booked tickets will be automatically refunded. Police and security personnel were seen around the museum on Monday, with metal barriers placed at key entrances.

What are people saying about the robbery?

The theft has triggered political outrage in France, with President Emmanuel Macron labeling the raid an attack on our history. Critics argue that this incident raises serious questions about the museum's security protocols.

As investigations continue, the public is left shocked by the audacity of the thieves and the implications for France’s cultural heritage.