Louvre Museum Heist: Seven Minutes, Nine Jewels Gone from Paris Museum

A dramatic robbery has stunned the art world. Thieves stole nine priceless jewels from the Louvre Museum in Paris. The heist occurred on the morning of Sunday, October 19, 2025. It was a swift and professional operation.

According to the Associated Press, the museum was evacuated and closed. The French Interior Minister confirmed the theft. The targeted items were historic French crown jewels.

How the Louvre Museum Heist Unfolded

Three masked individuals executed the plan. They entered around 9:30 a.m. using a construction site elevator. This access point was along the Seine river.

The thieves used an angle grinder to breach a window. They reached the famed Apollo Gallery. Their target was the crown jewels collection.

They focused on artifacts from Napoleon Bonaparte and Empress Eugenie. The entire theft took just four to seven minutes. They then escaped on waiting motor scooters.

Investigation and Stolen Items Recovery

The Paris prosecutor opened an investigation immediately. The specialized Banditism Repression Brigade is leading the case. Their focus is on organized theft and criminal conspiracy.

Authorities confirmed nine pieces were taken. These included a tiara, a brooch, and a crown. One of the stolen crowns was later found discarded nearby.

Culture Minister Rachida Dati described the stolen goods as “quite priceless.” She confirmed the perpetrators were “professionals.” The search continues for the remaining missing jewels.

Security Review and Political Reaction

The incident has prompted a major security review. Questions are being asked about protection for national treasures. The Louvre’s vast size presents a constant challenge.

Political figures expressed support for the museum staff. Security protocols are under intense scrutiny. The French government has vowed to recover all items.

The Louvre remains one of the world’s most visited museums. This brazen theft has raised global concerns about cultural heritage security.

The swift and precise Louvre Museum Heist reveals significant security challenges. Authorities are pursuing all leads to recover the national treasures. This event will likely change museum security protocols worldwide.

Thought you’d like to know

What was stolen in the Louvre heist?

Thieves took nine pieces of historic jewelry. The items were from the French crown jewels collection. This included pieces belonging to Napoleon and Empress Eugenie.

How did the thieves break into the Louvre?

They used a construction elevator for access. An angle grinder was used to cut through a window. This allowed entry into the Apollo Gallery.

Were any of the stolen jewels recovered?

Yes, one item was found quickly. Empress Eugenie’s crown was located outside the museum. The search continues for the other eight missing pieces.

How long did the Louvre robbery take?

The entire operation was incredibly fast. Officials estimate it took between four and seven minutes. The thieves then escaped on motor scooters.

Has the Louvre museum reopened after the theft?

The museum was closed immediately after the robbery. It remained closed for a full investigation. The reopening date has not yet been announced.

Who is investigating the Louvre jewel theft?

The Paris prosecutor’s office is leading the case. They are supported by a specialized police brigade. The cultural property trafficking office is also involved.

Trusted Sources

Associated Press, Reuters, Le Parisien, French Interior Ministry, French Culture Ministry.