The Louvre faces potential closure if France’s incoming president decides to cancel plans for an extensive €1 billion renovation, the museum’s director warned ahead of the first anniversary of a high-profile jewel theft. Christophe Leribault, who leads the world’s most visited museum, emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive upgrade to address the institution’s deteriorating condition and security weaknesses.

The warning follows a daring heist last year in which thieves stole French crown jewels valued at around €88 million. The burglars used a cherry-picker to gain access through a first-floor window in the Galerie d’Apollon before escaping on scooters. Although four suspects have been apprehended, and efforts to recover the stolen royal and imperial artifacts continue, the burglary exposed significant security deficiencies. These included limited CCTV coverage, an outdated control room, and the prior absence of a dedicated security director.

In response, the Louvre has launched an €83 million program aimed at improving security infrastructure. Measures include appointing a head of security and acquiring modern surveillance equipment. However, Leribault maintains these steps are only part of the solution, citing the museum’s overall poor condition. The Louvre building, originally constructed in 1546 as a royal palace, suffers from issues such as leaks, overcrowding, and general dilapidation.

Last year, President Emmanuel Macron announced an ambitious renovation project called “Nouvelle Renaissance,” envisioned to last around 15 years. Among its notable features, the plan includes creating a dedicated gallery for the Mona Lisa and establishing a new entrance. While the initial estimate for the overhaul was €600 million, experts now suggest the final cost could approach €1 billion.

The proposal has faced criticism from union representatives advocating for a more limited upgrade focused primarily on security improvements. Additionally, skepticism has arisen regarding the affordability of such an extensive project amid France’s substantial public debt, reported at €3.67 trillion. Some observers speculate Macron’s successor, who will assume office following next year’s presidential election, might reconsider or abandon the renovation plan.

Leribault described any cancellation of the project as “absurd” and warned that failure to modernize and adapt the museum would result in its rapid decline and potential closure to the public. To help alleviate financial pressure, the director is seeking around €360 million in donations, targeting contributors in the United States and the Middle East.

The Louvre also plans to implement cost-saving measures, such as limiting exhibitions and events, and may raise ticket prices. Current admission fees charge EU visitors €22, while non-EU tourists, including those from the United Kingdom, pay €32.