Only around four months after taking office, the new head of the iconic Louvre museum in Paris says the venerable institution is at the end of its rope and needs massive investments.
In testimony before a French Senate commission on Wednesday, Christophe Leribault, who was appointed in February, described numerous technical systems and infrastructures as outdated.
"One can say it without beating about the bush: despite its impressive splendour, despite the daily commitment of its teams, the Louvre is running out of steam," Leribault said in testimony that was broadcast on a live feed from France's upper house of parliament.
Security problems and old technology
The museum chief spoke of a veritable wall of investment facing the institution. Extensive refurbishment and modernization are necessary to ensure long-term operations, he said.
The warning comes at a difficult time for the historic institution. A spectacular robbery in October, in which jewels worth around €88 million ($107 million) were stolen, put the Louvre under pressure. Furthermore, the landmark has faced strikes, security problems and antiquated technology.
With an average of around 9 million visitors a year, the Louvre is one of the most important cultural institutions worldwide.
