Visiting Paris’ famous Louvre Museum has become a “physical ordeal,” according to its director. In a leaked memo to the French culture minister, Director Laurence des Cars highlighted several issues, from leaks that threaten priceless artwork to inadequate catering.
“Visitors have no space to take a break,” des Cars wrote. “The food options and restroom facilities are insufficient in volume, falling below international standards. The signage needs to be completely redesigned.”
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Another complaint was difficulty accessing artworks and overcrowding.
Growing pains at the Louvre
The Louvre is designed to see about four million visitors a year. Last year alone, it saw more than double that, 8.7 million visitors. About 70% of visitors were tourists who’d come from all over the world to take in the experience.
Since taking the director position in 2021, des Cars has moved to impose a cap on the number of people who can visit in a day and extend the hours the museum is open.
A widespread overcrowding problem
The leaked memo highlights a growing issue in Europe: over-tourism. Many areas around the continent have taken steps to alleviate the issue.
In December 2024, officials in Rome limited visitors to the Trevi Fountain to 400 people at a time. In Greece, authorities have implemented a time-slot system for the Acropolis to ease congestion.
A similar strategy is also in place at Barcelona’s Sagrada Família Basilica. In Venice, authorities are experimenting with an entry charge for visitors.
