Stolen Treasures: Details Emerge from the Louvre Jewel Heist

Mon Oct 20 2025 17:20:35 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The Louvre Museum has been the target of a significant jewel heist, raising concerns about security and safety at one of the world's most renowned cultural institutions. Investigations are ongoing.

On Sunday morning, thieves executed a daring heist at the Louvre Museum in Paris, stealing priceless crown jewels in broad daylight. The thieves used a vehicle-mounted lift to gain access and fled on scooters with eight valuable items. The museum remains closed as investigations continue, with many questioning the security measures in place. Amidst the chaos, political leaders express outrage over the incident, calling it an attack on French heritage.

Stolen Treasures: Details Emerge from the Louvre Jewel Heist

The Louvre Museum in Paris is closed today as police investigate a brazen jewel heist that targeted France's most treasured crown jewels. Thieves armed with power tools broke into the world’s most visited museum in broad daylight, escaping on scooters with eight extremely valuable items.

How Did the Theft Unfold?

The robbery occurred between 09:30 and 09:40 local time, just after the museum opened. Four thieves utilized a vehicle-mounted lift to access the Galerie d'Apollon via a balcony overlooking the River Seine. They cut through the glass with a battery-powered cutter, threatened security personnel, evacuated the premises, and stole items from two display cases. A preliminary report indicates that one-third of the area had no CCTV cameras, highlighting potential security vulnerabilities.

What Jewels Were Stolen?

Authorities report that the stolen items included tiaras, necklaces, earrings, and brooches, all dating back to the 19th century and linked to French royalty. These items, described as priceless and holding immense historical value, have prompted a manhunt for the perpetrators. Notably, two of the invaluable pieces were later discovered near the scene, apparently discarded during the theft.

The Aftermath

The robbery has ignited a political firestorm in France. Cultural Minister Rachida Dati condemned the heist, emphasizing the calmness of the robbers, who displayed apparent significant planning. Emphasizing the magnitude of the event, prominent political figures are calling for improvements in security at France's cultural sites. The Louvre remains closed for investigations, with no confirmed reopening date.

As investigations continue, approximately 60 detectives are actively pursuing the case. Witnesses reported total panic during the evacuation, prompting a national dialogue on the safety of cultural assets. This incident follows a troubling pattern of museum break-ins in France, raising concerns about security measures moving forward.