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Louvre Reopens After Water Leak, Fraud Arrests Loom

2/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On February 13, 2026, a water leak in the Louvre Museum's Denon gallery damaged a ceiling painted by Charles Meynier and spared the Mona Lisa, and the leak was contained with the gallery set to reopen.
This follows arrest of nine individuals tied to a decade-long ticket fraud scheme that cost over €10 million.
Louvre faced security concerns from a jewel heist last October and ongoing staffing and safety strikes.

History

Historical Context

The theft of the Mona Lisa by Vincenzo Peruggia on August 21, 1911, marked a pivotal moment in art history, leading to heightened security at the Louvre and significant media attention. The painting's recovery in 1913 transformed it into a global icon. Recent incidents, including a water leak and ticket fraud costing over €10 million, highlight ongoing security challenges at the museum, necessitating reforms to protect cultural heritage.

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Story summary

On February 13, 2026, a water leak in the Louvre Museum's Denon gallery damaged a ceiling painted by Charles Meynier and spared the Mona Lisa, and the leak was contained with the gallery set to reopen.
This follows arrest of nine individuals tied to a decade-long ticket fraud scheme that cost over €10 million.
Louvre faced security concerns from a jewel heist last October and ongoing staffing and safety strikes.

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