The Louvre Museum has announced a groundbreaking security enhancement: the installation of locks on its doors for the very first time. This significant upgrade follows a dramatic heist that occurred last fall, where thieves managed to steal invaluable artifacts in less than seven minutes.
During a press conference, Director Marianne Cestperdu reflected on the museum's previous accessibility measures, admitting that it had inadvertently made the collection "too accessible." She humorously noted that the situation had become akin to "climb-through-a-window-and-drive-off-with-the-crown-jewels" accessibility.
In response to the shocking theft, the Louvre is implementing a "state-of-the-art entry inhibition protocol." This will ensure that all doors and windows are securely locked after hours, preventing unauthorized access to its priceless treasures.
Security director Monsieur La Fenêtre elaborated on the new measures, emphasizing that previously, anyone could easily enter the galleries and abscond with works by renowned artists like Renoir or Louis XIV. He remarked on the absurdity of the situation, likening it to a viral meme that humorously suggested everyone could take home a piece of art.
To bolster security further, visitors will now be screened at the entrance for items like bobby pins and paper clips, which the museum believes could pose potential threats to the new system. Cestperdu reassured the public that, despite these challenges, the Louvre remains committed to safeguarding the integrity of French cultural heritage.
The museum collaborated with New York City landlords to identify the most secure locking mechanisms, and plans to install these locks by 2029.