New Louvre Director: Museum 'at the End of Its Strength'

Christophe Leribault, who became director of the Louvre in February 2025, has issued a stark warning to the French Senate: the museum is "at the end of its strength" and facing a massive investment crisis. He described numerous technical systems and infrastructure as outdated, and said the institution is "out of breath" despite its grandeur and staff dedication. The warning comes amid ongoing pressures including a spectacular jewel theft in October 2024 (€88 million), strikes, security issues, and failing equipment.

This matters because the Louvre is one of the world's most visited museums, averaging 9 million visitors annually. Leribault's testimony signals that even the most prestigious cultural institutions face severe operational and financial challenges, and that urgent, large-scale renovation and modernization are needed to ensure the museum's long-term viability. The crisis also highlights broader issues of museum funding and infrastructure maintenance in France.