Louvre employees closed the museum on Monday, protesting poor working conditions and staffing shortages.
The world’s most-visited museum faced a second major blow after October’s jewellery heist.
Labour leaders said 400 workers voted unanimously to strike, though the duration remains uncertain.
Striking staff gathered at the glass pyramid entrance, waving flags, banners, and placards.
The Louvre posted a notice online announcing an exceptional closure and promised ticket refunds.
The museum usually closes on Tuesdays, and employees may meet Wednesday to decide next steps.
Visitor Lindsey Hall expressed disappointment at missing the museum.
She said she had planned a life-changing experience with a friend.
Hall acknowledged staff pressures, recognizing how difficult daily routines can be for workers.
Security concerns and staff shortages spark anger
Unions met last week with Culture Minister Rachida Dati but left unsatisfied.
Alexis Fritche of CFDT called visiting the museum “an obstacle course” due to crowding and thin staffing.
Employees said the October jewel theft exposed serious security flaws and heightened workplace frustrations.
Police arrested four suspects allegedly responsible for stealing €88 million in crown jewels.
The gang used a basket lift, forced open a window, smashed display cases, and escaped.
A Senate inquiry blamed broken cameras, outdated equipment, understaffed control rooms, and police miscoordination.
CFDT demanded more security staff, better working conditions, long-term budgets, and responsive leadership.
CGT official Yvan Navarro said rising visitor numbers and costs contrast with declining staff and stagnant salaries.
Unions warned the Louvre faces a crisis if conditions and funding do not improve.
Government steps in to propose reforms
The Culture Ministry appointed Philippe Jost to propose a major Louvre reorganisation.
Jost previously oversaw Notre Dame’s post-fire reconstruction and will deliver recommendations by February’s end.
He will work with Louvre director Laurence des Cars, who called the October heist “a terrible failure.”
