Louvre workers walked out on Monday, closing the Paris museum in protest over staffing and safety concerns.
Labour leaders said 400 employees voted unanimously to strike for the day, though future action remains uncertain.
Strikers gathered at the iconic glass pyramid, waving banners and blocking visitor entry.
The Louvre posted a notice online confirming the exceptional closure and promised refunds for all ticket holders.
The museum normally closes on Tuesdays, giving employees a chance to meet Wednesday and decide whether to continue striking.
Tourists reacted with disappointment. Lindsey Hall, visiting from Sacramento, California, called the closure “really sad.”
She described the museum’s collection as “epic” and a once-in-a-lifetime experience, though she understood staff frustrations from daily pressures.
Staff cite security concerns and overcrowding
The strike followed talks last week between unions and Culture Minister Rachida Dati, which did not ease staffing and budget concerns.
Alexis Fritche of the CFDT said visiting the Louvre has become an “obstacle course” for staff and visitors alike.
Employees cited the October jewel heist as proof that thin staffing and crowding undermine security and working conditions.
Police later arrested four suspects accused of stealing €88 million in crown jewels.
The thieves used a basket lift, forced a window, smashed display cases, and fled.
A Senate inquiry blamed broken cameras, outdated equipment, understaffed control rooms, and poor coordination for the thieves’ escape.
Unions demand reforms as ministry responds
The CFDT called for more security staff, better working conditions, stable budgets, and leadership that listens to employees.
CGT official Yvan Navarro said visitor numbers rose while staff numbers fell, creating tension and frustration.
He said rising costs and stagnant pay pushed employees toward collective action.
Unions sent an open-ended strike notice, describing the Louvre as in “crisis” with deteriorating conditions.
The Culture Ministry assigned Philippe Jost, who rebuilt Notre Dame after the 2019 fire, to propose a major reorganisation.
Jost will work with Louvre director Laurence des Cars and deliver recommendations by the end of February.
Des Cars previously called the jewel heist a “terrible failure.”
