URGENT UPDATE: Over 400 artworks at the Louvre in Paris have been severely damaged due to flooding caused by a burst pipe, officials confirmed today. The museum’s deputy general administrator, Francis Steinbock, revealed that the damage occurred in one of the Egyptian antiquities libraries, impacting priceless artifacts and historical texts.
The flooding, which took place last week, affected at least 300 to 400 works, including books dating back to the late 19th century. Steinbock stated that restoration efforts are underway, with specialists using Buffard paper to meticulously dry the damaged works, even dehumidifying them page by page. Many of these items are crucial for Egyptologists and researchers, including visual periodicals and archaeology journals.
This incident marks another setback for the world’s most visited museum, which recently experienced a dramatic jewelry heist on October 19, where thieves stole eight of France’s Crown Jewels valued at an estimated 88 million euros. The search for the stolen items continues, with four suspects arrested in connection to the robbery. Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau confirmed that DNA traces linked to the crime were found at the scene.
Steinbock indicated that the area affected by the flooding is scheduled for a major renovation of the ventilation and heating system, set to begin in September 2026. The urgency for preservation efforts is heightened, given the cultural significance of the damaged items.
Authorities are currently assessing the full extent of the damage, and a comprehensive inventory is being conducted to determine the exact number of affected artworks. As the situation develops, the Louvre remains committed to preserving its invaluable collection for future generations.
Stay updated for more breaking news as restoration efforts progress and further details emerge.
