Paris: New Louvre Director sees museum 'at the end of its strength'

Christophe Leribault, the newly appointed director of the Louvre Museum in Paris, has issued a stark warning about the institution's condition, declaring it is "at the end of its strength" due to substantial underinvestment. Speaking before a French Senate commission, Leribault highlighted the urgent need for significant capital to ensure the museum's long-term operational viability.

Leribault, who has been in his role for approximately four months, described a critical situation where numerous technical systems and infrastructures have become obsolete. "One can say it without mincing words: despite its imposing splendor, despite the daily commitment of its teams, it is a Louvre that is out of breath," he stated, emphasizing the gap between the museum's global stature and its deteriorating physical state.

The director stressed that extensive renovation and modernization efforts are essential to secure the museum's future. He characterized the situation as facing an "investment wall." The Louvre has been grappling with a series of challenges beyond its aging infrastructure, including recent strikes and security concerns.

These issues were underscored by a significant theft in October of the previous year, where jewels valued at approximately 88 million euros were stolen from the museum. Despite these operational and security hurdles, the Louvre remains one of the world's most important cultural institutions, attracting an average of around nine million visitors annually.

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One can say it without mincing words: despite its imposing splendor, despite the daily commitment of its teams, it is a Louvre that is out of breath.