The Louvre strike, though sudden, was not without cause. Workers described 'untenable' conditions worsened by overcrowding, chronic understaffing, and crumbling infrastructure. With nearly 8.7 million visitors last year—more than double what its current systems were designed to handle—the Louvre has become emblematic of cultural landmarks pushed to their limits.

The Louvre Museum closed after staff walked out over overcrowding, decaying infrastructure and deep funding cuts, leaving visitors locked out in protest

The Louvre Museum delayed its opening on Monday, with staff citing an “emergency meeting” of senior officials about a subject they did not disclose. (AP Video shot by Laurie Kellman)

The Louvre Museum has failed to open on time Monday, leaving thousands of visitors stuck in long, unmoving lines.

Louvre Museum in Paris unexpectedly shut down due to a staff strike, leaving tourists stranded. Workers cite unbearable conditions from overcrowding, understaffing, and inadequate facilities. While a 10-year renovation plan exists,

Staff refused to open the museum’s doors to thousands of visitors on Monday, citing over-tourism and crumbling infrastructure.

Thousands of angry tourists waited for hours outside the Louvre on Monday morning after the Paris museum's staff staged a surprise strike.

The Louvre, the world's most-visited museum and a global symbol of art, beauty and endurance, remained shuttered Monday — not by war but by its own exhausted staff, who say the institution in Paris is crumbling from within.