Labour leaders said 400 employees voted unanimously to strike, but the duration remains uncertain.
Workers closed the Louvre on Monday, protesting poor working conditions and long-standing complaints.
The strike adds another blow to the museum following October’s high-profile jewellery heist.
Striking employees blocked the museum’s iconic glass pyramid with banners, flags, and placards.
The Louvre posted a notice online saying it was “exceptionally” closed and promised ticket refunds.
Staff may meet again Wednesday to decide whether to extend the work stoppage.
Visitors express frustration amid closures
Tourists arriving at the museum faced disappointment and anger over the strike.
Lindsey Hall from Sacramento, California, said she had eagerly planned a visit with a friend.
She called the Louvre’s collection “epic” and described it as a life experience every person should see.
Hall added she understood the challenges museum staff face day after day.
Staff demand security, funding, and fair working conditions
The strike followed talks last week between unions and Culture Minister Rachida Dati.
Union leaders said negotiations failed to address staffing shortages and insufficient funding.
CFDT’s Alexis Fritche said visiting the museum has become “an obstacle course” for staff and tourists alike.
The October jewellery heist intensified security concerns, highlighting understaffing and poor equipment.
Police later arrested the four suspects accused of stealing €88 million in crown jewels.
A Senate inquiry cited broken cameras, outdated systems, and delayed police response as causes.
Unions demand more security staff, better visitor experiences, stable budgets, and responsive leadership.
CGT representative Yvan Navarro said staff numbers fell even as visitor counts increased.
He added rising costs and stagnant wages left workers frustrated and pushed them to strike.
The French Culture Ministry appointed Philippe Jost to propose a deep Louvre reorganisation.
Jost, who rebuilt Notre Dame after the 2019 fire, will make recommendations by February’s end.
He will collaborate with Louvre director Laurence des Cars, who called the heist a “terrible failure.”
