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.”
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.
