The Louvre transferred part of its jewellery collection to the Bank of France vaults after last week’s audacious robbery. French radio network RTL reported that the transfer took place on Friday as a safety measure.
Police escorted the operation as staff quietly moved the “Crown Jewels” from the Apollo Gallery and other museum sections. The Bank of France vault, located 27 metres below its Paris headquarters, already holds 90% of the nation’s gold reserves.
The decision came days after thieves stole eight royal jewels from the museum, prompting national outrage and concerns over security failures.
Thieves Execute Bold Daylight Robbery in Six Minutes
According to investigators, several thieves broke into the Louvre in broad daylight last week. They used a basket lift to reach a balcony connected to the Apollo Gallery, forced a window, and smashed display cases.
The group fled on two motorbikes after seizing jewels valued at an estimated 88 million euros. The robbery lasted between six and seven minutes, police confirmed. Prosecutors said the true loss is far greater when accounting for the artefacts’ historical significance to France.
Lawmakers condemned the theft as a “national humiliation” and demanded accountability from cultural authorities. Many criticized the museum for ignoring earlier warnings about underfunded security systems.
Surge in European Museum Heists Alarms Authorities
French officials said the Louvre incident reflects a growing trend of museum robberies across Europe. At least four museums in France have suffered similar thefts in recent months.
Experts believe organized crime groups target institutions with aging security infrastructure and valuable, poorly protected exhibits. Police continue to investigate the latest Louvre heist and track possible international links to criminal networks.
The French government has promised urgent reviews of museum protection protocols. Officials said they aim to restore public confidence after one of the most shocking art crimes in recent memory.
