Paris’s Louvre closed on Sunday after a minutes-long daylight raid in the Apollo Gallery, where four thieves used a basket lift, forced a window and smashed display cases to seize crown jewels before fleeing on two-wheelers, officials said. No injuries were reported as police and forensic teams began work and the museum announced an exceptional closure. Authorities said eight of nine targeted pieces were stolen, including items from Napoleon and the Empress’s collection. One object was later found outside; French media said it was Empress Eugénie’s emerald-set crown, recovered damaged. President Emmanuel Macron vowed justice.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.