Paris, France — A water leak at the Louvre Museum has resulted in damage to hundreds of works within its Egyptian department, amplifying concerns regarding the facility’s aging infrastructure. Discovered on November 26, the leak has reportedly affected between 300 and 400 items primarily categorized as scholarly texts and scientific documentation important for researchers.
Francis Steinbock, the museum’s deputy administrator, stated that while the damaged materials span from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, they are not unique artifacts critical to the museum’s collection. He noted that there are no irreparable losses among the works impacted by the leak, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to its preservation and restoration efforts.
This incident follows an October theft, during which a group of four managed to steal jewelry valued at approximately $102 million in a shocking daytime heist. This brazen act raised alarms about the museum’s security measures and prompted discussions on transitioning to a more modern infrastructure.
According to Steinbock, the leak was triggered by the inadvertent opening of a valve in the museum’s outdated heating and ventilation system, which had been inoperative for several months and is scheduled for replacement in 2026. The water seeped through the ceiling of the Mollien wing, where many of the books were housed.
Steinbock reassured that the damaged works will undergo a drying process before being sent to a bookbinder for restoration. Once repaired, the materials will be returned to their shelves, mitigating any long-term impact on research activities related to Egyptology.
In a separate development, the Louvre announced plans to increase ticket prices for visitors from outside the European Union. As of late November, tourists from the U.S., UK, and China, among others, will face a new entry fee of €32, representing a 45% increase. This hike aims to generate an additional $23 million annually to finance infrastructure improvements.
The Louvre has experienced substantial visitor traffic, welcoming 8.7 million people in 2024, with nearly 70% of them coming from abroad. The museum’s management continues to prioritize both visitor experience and the safeguarding of its extensive collections in the face of recent events.