Louvre employees walked out on Monday, forcing the museum to close over working conditions and staffing concerns.
Labour leaders said 400 workers voted unanimously to strike for the day.
Strikers blocked the iconic glass pyramid with banners, flags, and placards.
The museum posted a notice online confirming the exceptional closure and promising ticket refunds.
The strike could last beyond one day, but employees have not yet decided.
Staff may meet again on Wednesday to determine whether to extend the action.
The Louvre normally closes on Tuesdays, giving workers time to consult and plan.
Visitors express frustration amid shutdown
Tourists arriving at the Louvre reacted with disappointment and frustration.
Lindsey Hall from Sacramento, California, said she had long looked forward to the visit.
She called the collection “epic” and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Hall also acknowledged the daily pressures staff face and said she understood their frustrations.
Visitors reported similar feelings, lamenting lost opportunities while sympathizing with staff concerns.
The strike left thousands unable to access one of the world’s top cultural attractions.
Staff cite security risks and understaffing
Unions said last week’s talks with Culture Minister Rachida Dati failed to address staffing and budget issues.
Alexis Fritche, CFDT union secretary, said “visiting the museum has become an obstacle course.”
Workers linked overcrowding and thin staffing to unsafe working conditions.
The October jewellery heist intensified staff concerns.
Police arrested four suspects accused of stealing €88 million in crown jewels.
The thieves used a basket lift, forced a window, smashed display cases, and fled.
A Senate inquiry cited broken cameras, outdated equipment, and understaffed control rooms.
Investigators said poor coordination initially sent police to the wrong location.
Unions demand more security staff, improved working conditions, and long-term budget stability.
CGT union official Yvan Navarro said staff numbers continue to fall while visitor numbers rise.
He said rising costs and stagnant staffing fueled the anger behind the strike.
The Culture Ministry appointed Philippe Jost to propose a deep reorganisation of the Louvre.
Jost previously led Notre Dame’s reconstruction after the 2019 fire.
He will work with Louvre director Laurence des Cars and deliver recommendations by February’s end.
Des Cars previously called the jewel heist a “terrible failure.”
