The Louvre transferred part of its jewelry collection to the Bank of France vaults on Friday after a shocking theft last week. French radio network RTL reported that the museum quietly moved several high-value pieces under heavy police escort.
The transfer included the “Crown Jewels” displayed in the Apollo Gallery, along with other historic artifacts from different exhibits. Officials said the move was a precaution to safeguard the remaining treasures.
The vault, located 27 meters below the Bank of France headquarters in central Paris, already stores about 90% of the nation’s gold reserves.
Thieves Strike in Broad Daylight and Escape in Minutes
Several thieves broke into the Louvre in broad daylight last week, executing one of France’s most audacious museum robberies. They used a basket lift to reach a balcony leading to the Apollo Gallery, forced open a window, and smashed display cases.
The entire heist lasted only six to seven minutes. The robbers fled the scene on two-wheel vehicles, evading security and police response. Investigators estimate the stolen jewels are worth around 88 million euros, not including their immense historical significance.
Paris prosecutors confirmed that the theft involved well-planned coordination, likely by professionals familiar with museum layouts and security systems.
Outrage Mounts as France Demands Better Museum Protection
The robbery triggered national outrage and condemnation from lawmakers, who called it a “national humiliation.” Many criticized the government for neglecting museum security despite repeated warnings from officials at the Louvre.
Experts said France has witnessed a rise in museum heists in recent years. At least four French museums have suffered similar robberies in the past few months, signaling a wider trend across Europe.
Cultural leaders now urge authorities to increase investment in museum protection systems and tighten surveillance to prevent further losses of national heritage.
