Louvre Museum Brings World's Most-Watched Art Collection to a Standstill Amid Staff Strike

PARIS, MONDAY (AP) — The world-famous Louvre museum in Paris went uncharacteristically silent on Monday as thousands of visitors were left stranded outside its iconic glass pyramid after staff carried out a spontaneous strike. The walkout, sparked by workers demanding better working conditions and an end to the crowds and overcrowding that have plagued the institution for years.

Gallery attendants, ticket agents, and security personnel took to the streets in a show of solidarity against what they claim are "untenable" and "unmanageable" conditions. The strike comes months after French President Emmanuel Macron unveiled a €700-800 million plan to address the same grievances, but many workers feel that their concerns have been ignored.

"This is like the Mona Lisa's birthday – everyone wants to celebrate, but nobody actually attends," joked a disgruntled visitor from Milwaukee, who waited for hours in vain. The Louvre has become notorious for its crowds and long queue times, with visitors competing for space in front of Leonardo da Vinci's famous 'Mona Lisa.'

Experts say the museum's struggles are part of a global trend on overtourism, seen as the main culprit behind Paris' tourist overcrowding.

"It's not just about art; it's about the people who protect their treasures," Sarah Sefian of the CGT-Culture union told France 24. "If Mr. Macron can't help us with our problems now, how will he when it comes to saving his art?"

The crisis highlights ongoing debates on managing tourist arrivals and infrastructure in popular destinations such as Paris, Venice, Great Barrier Reef, Machu Picchu, Barcelona, and others across the world.

The Louvre's massive crowd problem started during its opening month last year with just over 8.7 million visitors – double of what staff are expecting, which is why authorities need to impose a daily limit on entry tickets, as well as measures to prevent overcrowding at their newly enhanced 'Salle des Etat'.

A leaked plan from Louvre President Laurence des Cars reveals additional problems that have plagued its massive facility.

According to some reports from local sources, several parts of the museum building experienced structural failures following recent and sustained heavy rainfall.