Louvre Director Warns Museum Could Eventually Close

Louvre director Christophe Leribault has warned that the museum could eventually close if it does not receive repairs, modernization and a broader transformation, saying the work is essential to its future. His warning comes as the institution advances a security plan and seeks support for a much larger renovation. In an interview published Wednesday, October 14, Leribault said the Louvre would fall behind without the changes and eventually have to shut its doors to the public. He described that prospect as a disaster. The warning concerns a potential future risk; no closure has been scheduled. Leribault said the museum’s €83 million security master plan was moving ahead. Measures include perimeter cameras, secured access points and work on the security control centre. The Louvre has also committed to spending about €20 million a year on security through 2032, according to the reported plan. The security work is part of a wider initiative known as the Louvre New Renaissance, which includes renovating the historic building, adding an entrance and creating a new gallery for the Mona Lisa.