Louvre staff in Paris walked out on Monday, shutting the world’s most-visited museum.
Workers protested poor working conditions and other unresolved complaints, weeks after a high-profile jewellery heist.
The CFDT union said 400 employees voted unanimously to strike for the day.
Striking staff blocked the museum’s glass pyramid with flags, banners, and placards.
The Louvre posted an updated notice online, confirming the closure and promising ticket refunds.
It remains unclear whether the strike will continue beyond Monday.
The museum normally closes on Tuesdays, and employees may meet again Wednesday to decide next steps.
Visitors express frustration and understanding
Tourists arriving at the museum expressed disappointment at the unexpected closure.
Lindsey Hall, from Sacramento, California, said she had planned a lifelong experience at the Louvre.
She called the collection “epic” and said every person should see it at least once.
At the same time, she said she understood the pressures staff face day after day.
Other visitors shared similar feelings, disappointed by the closure but sympathetic to the workers’ demands.
The strike highlighted the tension between public expectations and staff well-being in a busy landmark.
Security fears and staffing shortages drive unrest
The strike followed last week’s talks with Culture Minister Rachida Dati, which failed to resolve concerns.
Union leaders said insufficient staffing and long-term funding problems continue to threaten museum operations.
Alexis Fritche of CFDT said, “Visiting the museum has become an obstacle course.”
Staff cited the October jewellery heist as evidence of security weaknesses.
Police arrested four suspects accused of stealing €88 million worth of French crown jewels.
The thieves used a basket lift, smashed display cases, and escaped in under 30 seconds.
A Senate inquiry blamed broken cameras, outdated equipment, understaffed control rooms, and poor coordination.
CFDT said employees want more security staff, better working conditions, and long-term budgets.
CGT union official Yvan Navarro said visitor numbers rise while staffing and salaries stagnate.
He called Monday a “day of anger” after years of mounting pressure.
The unions described the Louvre as in “crisis,” with insufficient resources and worsening conditions.
The French Culture Ministry appointed Philippe Jost to propose a deep reorganisation of the museum.
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.”
