Here’s the translation in English: “In Paris, the Louvre – one of the largest and most popular museums in the world – was robbed: details of the incident.”

Nine Napoleonic Era Jewels Stolen from the Louvre

On Sunday, October 19, unknown individuals stole nine unique items from the collection of Napoleon and the Empress’s jewels at the Louvre. French Minister of Culture Rachida Dati confirmed the incident, emphasizing that an investigation has been launched.

According to Le Parisien, the perpetrators arrived on high-speed Tmax scooters and gained access to the Louvre through a side entrance from the Seine River, where renovation work is ongoing. Using an elevator, the thieves quickly reached the Apollo Gallery on the second floor. By breaking windows with the help of an angle grinder, they entered the rooms where the jewelry was kept. Official museum sources reported that valuables such as necklaces, brooches, and tiaras were stolen, though the famous “Regent” diamond remained untouched.

Investigators revealed that one of the stolen treasures, Empress Eugénie’s crown, was found outside with damage. Experts are concerned that the stolen diamonds may be melted down or sold separately on the black market, making their recovery significantly more difficult.

Surveillance cameras recorded the suspects fleeing on scooters towards the A6 highway. This is not the first time the Louvre has been in the spotlight — earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron announced a major renovation of the museum, which will include a separate room for the painting “Mona Lisa.”