The Louvre transferred parts of its jewellery collection to the Bank of France’s vaults on Friday after a major theft shocked the nation. French radio network RTL reported that the transfer took place discreetly under heavy police escort. The secured items included pieces from the Apollo Gallery’s “Crown Jewels” and other precious artefacts from various exhibits.
The bank’s underground vault, located 27 metres below its Paris headquarters, already stores about 90% of France’s gold reserves. Officials said the move was a precaution to prevent further losses as investigators continue to search for the culprits behind last week’s heist.
Thieves Pull Off Bold Daylight Robbery at Louvre
Last week, several thieves carried out a daylight robbery at the world-renowned museum. They used a basket lift to reach a balcony connected to the Apollo Gallery, forced open a window, and smashed display cases before escaping on motorcycles. The entire operation lasted no more than seven minutes.
Investigators estimated the stolen jewels to be worth around €88 million, though experts say their cultural and historical value to France is immeasurable. The robbery outraged the public and embarrassed the government, with French lawmakers calling it a “national humiliation.”
Surge in European Museum Thefts Raises Alarm
The Louvre incident reignited debates about museum security and underinvestment in cultural protection. Museum officials had previously warned about funding shortages that left critical systems vulnerable. French authorities now face growing pressure to strengthen security measures at national institutions.
Recent years have seen an alarming increase in museum heists across Europe. In France alone, at least four museums have been robbed within months, prompting cultural officials to demand urgent reforms. The Paris theft has become a symbol of both criminal audacity and institutional neglect in safeguarding national treasures.
