Louvre's Jewels Vanish in a Flash

In a bold move, thieves struck the Louvre Museum, making off with priceless treasures in just four minutes. This daring heist took place in broad daylight, with visitors nearby, raising questions about security at one of the world's most famous museums. The thieves used a basket lift to reach a window, forced their way in, and smashed display cases to grab the jewels. One of the stolen items, the emerald-set imperial crown of Empress Eugénie, was later found broken outside the museum. The theft occurred in the Apollon Gallery, home to the royal collection and the Crown Diamonds. Among the stolen items were a parure with matching necklace and earrings, a brooch, and two crowns. The thieves fled on scooters, leaving behind a trail of confusion and concern. The Louvre was closed for the rest of the day to allow for a forensic investigation. This incident highlights the ongoing issue of overcrowding and understaffing at the Louvre. The museum has been struggling to manage the influx of visitors, which has put a strain on security measures. The theft also comes at a time when the Louvre is undergoing a major overhaul plan to modernize its infrastructure and ease crowding. The heist has sparked political debate, with critics questioning the effectiveness of the government's plans to improve the museum's security. Far-right leader Jordan Bardella used the incident to attack President Emmanuel Macron, calling it an "unbearable humiliation" for the country. The Louvre's "New Renaissance" plan, aimed at modernizing the museum and giving the Mona Lisa a dedicated gallery by 2031, has been met with skepticism by workers on the ground. The theft is a fresh embarrassment for the Louvre, which has a long history of thefts and attempted robberies. The most famous incident was the theft of the Mona Lisa in 1911, which was recovered two years later in Florence. The Louvre's collection includes some of the world's most famous artworks, drawing up to 30, 000 visitors daily. Forensic teams are examining the crime scene and adjoining access points, while a full inventory is being taken. Authorities have described the haul as of "inestimable" historical value. Recovery may prove difficult, as professional crews often break down and re-cut large, recognizable stones to evade detection. Key questions remain unanswered, such as how many people took part in the theft and whether they had inside assistance.