Following a daylight robbery, the Louvre has relocated crown jewels and other valuables to a high-security vault at the Bank of France.
PARIS: In the wake of a daring daylight robbery, the Louvre Museum has transferred several of its most prized possessions, including the French crown jewels, to the Bank of France’s main underground vault. The move aims to ensure heightened security for these valuable artifacts while investigations into the theft continue.
As reported by French radio station RTL, the decision comes just days after the museum was targeted in a rare heist that shook the cultural and security community. The jewels, typically showcased in the Louvre’s Apollo Gallery, were quietly removed from public view and transported just 300 metres away to the nearby Bank of France headquarters.
The bank’s underground vault, located 25 metres below ground level, is already home to approximately 90% of France’s gold reserves and is regarded as one of the most secure facilities in the country. The transferred collection includes both crown jewels and earlier exhibits of high-value jewellery, which museum authorities deemed vulnerable in the aftermath of the incident.
While French officials have not released details about the stolen items or suspects, the swift relocation signals a proactive effort to prevent further losses and secure national heritage assets. The Louvre has not confirmed when the jewels will return to public display, stating that priority is being placed on assessment, preservation and long-term security.
This incident has reignited debates around museum security protocols in Europe, particularly for high-profile heritage institutions. Authorities are expected to review and enhance surveillance and protection measures across the Louvre and other major galleries.
