Louvre employees closed the Paris museum on Monday, protesting working conditions and staff shortages.
Labour leaders said 400 workers voted unanimously to strike, though it remains unclear if the stoppage will extend beyond one day.
Strikers blocked the glass pyramid entrance, waving banners and placards.
The museum posted a notice confirming the closure and promising ticket refunds.
Employees may meet again on Wednesday to decide whether to continue the strike.
Visitors expressed disappointment over the sudden closure. Lindsey Hall from Sacramento, California, had planned a lifelong visit with a friend.
She described the Louvre as “one of those life experiences you crave” and praised its epic art collection.
At the same time, Hall said she understood the stress museum staff face from daily crowds and long hours.
Security gaps and staffing shortages fuel anger
The strike followed last week’s talks with Culture Minister Rachida Dati, which unions said failed to address staffing and funding concerns.
Alexis Fritche of the CFDT called visiting the museum “an obstacle course” due to crowding and thin staffing.
Employees cited the October daylight jewel heist as a stark example of weak security.
Police later arrested all four suspects accused of stealing €88 million in French crown jewels.
The gang used a basket lift, forced a window, smashed display cases, and fled.
A Senate inquiry blamed broken cameras, outdated equipment, understaffed control rooms, and poor police coordination for the escape.
Unions demand reforms, government responds
The CFDT said staff want more security personnel, better working conditions, and a long-term stable budget.
CGT official Yvan Navarro added that visitor numbers rise while staff numbers and salaries remain stagnant.
He said rising costs and insufficient staffing created a “day of anger” for employees.
Unions warned that the Louvre faces a “crisis” without immediate action to improve conditions.
The French Culture Ministry appointed Philippe Jost, who rebuilt Notre Dame after the 2019 fire, to lead a major Louvre reorganisation.
Jost will submit recommendations by the end of February.
He will work alongside Louvre director Laurence des Cars, who described the jewel heist as a “terrible failure.”
