The Louvre Museum in Paris was forced to close on Sunday after a meticulously executed theft saw eight priceless pieces from the French Crown Jewels stolen in a daring daylight operation. The break-in occurred at approximately 9:30 a.m. local time when perpetrators accessed the museum's Apollo Gallery, home to the Royal Collection of Gems and Crown Diamonds. French authorities confirmed the thieves targeted two high-security display cases in a swift and violent operation that triggered both exterior window and case alarms.

According to statements from the French Ministry of Culture, the stolen items include significant historical pieces from royal collections. The looted jewels comprise a tiara from the jewelry set of Queen Marie-Amélie and Queen Hortense, along with matching necklace and earring from their sapphire set. Also taken were an emerald necklace and pair of emerald earrings from the Empress Marie-Louise set, a reliquary brooch, a tiara of Empress Eugénie, and a large bodice knot brooch belonging to Empress Eugénie.

The thieves employed sophisticated methods to breach the museum's security, using an extendable ladder to access an upper window overlooking the Seine river. Museum staff demonstrated professionalism during the incident, immediately implementing security protocols by contacting police and prioritizing visitor safety. No injuries were reported among staff or visitors present during the break-in. The Ministry of Culture praised Louvre personnel for their quick response, which forced the criminals to flee and abandon one stolen object—the crown of Empress Eugenie—outside the museum.

French authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the theft, focusing on organized criminal activity behind the professionally executed heist. The recovery of Empress Eugenie's crown, though damaged, provides investigators with potential forensic evidence. The Apollo Gallery, where the theft occurred, represents one of the Louvre's most historically significant spaces—originally commissioned by Louis XIV in 1661 and modeled after the Greek sun god Apollo, later serving as inspiration for Versailles' Hall of Mirrors.