Water Leak at Louvre Damages Books

The Louvre Museum in Paris, renowned as the world's largest art museum, has recently encountered a series of challenges that have raised concerns about its infrastructure and security measures. On November 26, a water leak occurred, resulting in damage to approximately 300-400 books dating from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. This incident has further exacerbated the museum's existing issues, coming in the wake of a high-profile heist in October.

The water damage was attributed to the inadvertent opening of a valve in a defunct plumbing system, which is slated for replacement as part of extensive renovation works commencing in September 2026. The affected texts, primarily related to Egyptology and scientific documentation, are regularly consulted by visitors but are not unique copies. Museum officials have assured that the books will be restored and returned to the shelves after appropriate drying and repair processes.

This incident follows a brazen theft on October 19, where thieves exploited security vulnerabilities to pilfer valuable jewelry, including pieces worn by Queen Marie-Amélie and Queen Hortense. The heist, which lasted a mere seven minutes and resulted in the loss of items valued at over $100 million, has prompted a reevaluation of the museum's security protocols.

In response to these challenges and acknowledging the structural issues facing the historic building, which has stood since the late 12th century, the Louvre has announced plans to increase ticket prices for non-European visitors. Starting January 14, 2026, ticket prices will see a 45% increase, aimed at generating an additional 15-20 million euros annually. These funds are earmarked for crucial infrastructure upgrades and modernization efforts, as the museum strives to balance its role as a global cultural landmark with the practical needs of maintaining and securing its vast collections.