Water Leak at Louvre Highlights Infrastructure Woes Amid Security Concerns

A water leak damaged hundreds of books in the Egyptian antiquities department at the Louvre, highlighting infrastructure issues just after a jewel heist exposed security flaws. Despite the problems being known for years, repairs are scheduled for 2026, while other structural weaknesses prompt partial gallery closures.

A water leak last month damaged hundreds of books in the Egyptian antiquities department at the Louvre, shedding light on the museum's infrastructural challenges amid recent security concerns.

According to La Tribune de l'Art, around 400 rare books were impacted, attributed to poor pipe conditions, with longstanding requests for funds to safeguard the collection remaining unmet.

Le Louvre's deputy administrator, Francis Steinbock, confirmed the paper count is ongoing, estimating 300 to 400 affected works. He noted that although the problem was longstanding, necessary repairs are not slated until September 2026.

Complicating matters, a jewel heist in October revealed serious security gaps, and ongoing structural weaknesses necessitated the partial closure of a Greek vase gallery.

(With inputs from agencies.)