The world-famous Louvre museum in Paris has confirmed that a significant water leak damaged between 300 and 400 items in its Egyptian department last month. The incident, caused by an open valve in an obsolete heating system, comes just weeks after a multi-million-pound jewel theft raised serious questions about the institution's security and infrastructure.
Details of the Louvre Water Damage Incident
The leak was discovered on 26 November in the Mollien wing, where water seeped through the ceiling onto stored collections. According to the museum's deputy administrator, Francis Steinbock, the affected items are described as "Egyptology journals" and "scientific documentation" used primarily by researchers.
Steinbock moved to reassure the public, stating that no unique heritage artefacts were impacted. The damaged materials date from the late 19th and early 20th centuries and, while "extremely useful" for academic work, are "by no means unique". He confirmed that at this stage, there are "no irreparable and definitive losses" from the affected collections.
Ageing Infrastructure Under Scrutiny
This leak is the second major incident to hit the Louvre in recent months, casting a harsh spotlight on its ageing facilities. In October, a brazen daylight theft saw a four-person gang steal jewellery valued at approximately £76.5 million in just seven minutes before escaping, sparking a widespread debate about museum security.
An internal investigation into the November leak is now underway. The museum revealed the leak originated from the "completely obsolete" heating and ventilation system, which had been shut down for months and is scheduled for replacement starting in September 2026.
The restoration plan for the water-damaged works is straightforward: they will be dried, sent to a bookbinder for repair, and eventually returned to the shelves.
Financial Pressures and Future Funding
These infrastructure challenges come as the Louvre seeks new revenue streams for vital renovations. In late November, the museum announced a 45% ticket price increase for most non-EU visitors, including those from the US, UK, and China. The standard entry fee will now rise to €32 (approximately £28).
The Louvre stated this hike aims to generate up to $23 million in additional annual revenue specifically to fund structural improvements. The museum, which welcomed 8.7 million visitors in 2024 (69% from abroad), is under clear pressure to modernise its facilities while preserving its priceless collections.
