Louvre employees walked out on Monday, closing the Paris museum in protest of working conditions.
The CFDT union said 400 staff voted unanimously to strike, though the duration remains uncertain.
Striking workers blocked the glass pyramid entrance with banners, flags, and placards.
The museum updated its website, confirming an exceptional closure and promising refunds to ticket holders.
The Louvre normally closes on Tuesdays, giving employees time to meet again on Wednesday.
They may decide to extend the strike or return to work.
Visitors frustrated but sympathetic to staff
Tourists faced disappointment after planning visits to the world’s most-visited museum.
Lindsey Hall from Sacramento, California, said she had eagerly anticipated exploring the Louvre’s vast collection.
She described the museum as “one of those life experiences you crave” and acknowledged staff pressures.
Other visitors echoed Hall’s frustration while recognizing staff concerns over long days and crowded conditions.
The strike disrupted access for thousands during a busy tourist season.
Security fears and staffing shortages spark anger
The walkout followed talks last week between unions and Culture Minister Rachida Dati.
Unions said discussions failed to resolve staffing and funding concerns.
CFDT secretary Alexis Fritche said visiting the museum now feels like an “obstacle course” due to overcrowding.
Staff cited the October jewel heist as evidence that thin staffing jeopardizes security.
Police later arrested four suspects who stole €88 million in crown jewels using a lift and smashed windows.
A Senate inquiry blamed broken cameras, outdated equipment, understaffed control rooms, and poor coordination.
Unions demand more security staff, improved visitor experience, stable budgets, and leadership that listens.
CGT representative Yvan Navarro said visitor numbers and prices have risen while staff and salaries stagnate.
Unions warned the Louvre faces a “crisis” with deteriorating conditions and insufficient resources.
The Culture Ministry appointed Philippe Jost to propose a major reorganisation.
Jost, who led Notre Dame’s post-fire reconstruction, will submit recommendations by the end of February.
He will collaborate with Louvre director Laurence des Cars, who called the heist a “terrible failure.”
