The Louvre secretly transferred part of its jewelry collection to the Bank of France vaults on Friday following last week’s audacious robbery. French radio network RTL reported that the move served as a precaution to prevent further thefts.
Police escorted the operation as museum staff discreetly removed the pieces, including the famed “Crown Jewels” from the Apollo Gallery and other valuable items. The Bank of France vault, located 27 meters below its Paris headquarters, also stores 90% of the nation’s gold reserves.
The transfer followed public outrage after the museum confirmed the theft of several historic jewels, forcing officials to tighten security across multiple exhibits.
Thieves Execute Bold Robbery in Broad Daylight
Investigators said several thieves carried out the daring heist in broad daylight. They used a basket lift to reach a balcony that led directly into the Apollo Gallery, smashed a window, and broke display cases to seize the jewels. The robbers fled on two motorbikes after a theft lasting only six to seven minutes.
A Paris prosecutor estimated the stolen items’ value at around €88 million, excluding their immense cultural and historical worth to France. Police continue to search for the suspects, who remain unidentified.
The robbery shocked the public and drew fierce criticism from lawmakers who described the event as a “national humiliation.”
Outrage Grows as Museum Security Faces Scrutiny
The Louvre’s leadership now faces renewed pressure over security measures. Experts said museum officials had already warned the government about underfunding and outdated surveillance systems. The incident reignited debate over France’s ability to protect its cultural treasures.
Lawmakers demanded immediate reforms, citing a rise in European museum heists. France alone has recorded at least four similar robberies in recent months.
The Paris theft exposed vulnerabilities in one of the world’s most prestigious institutions, reminding the nation that even its most guarded treasures remain at risk.
