English
Major Paris museums will close on Saturday as France prepares for another wave of protests. Authorities fear renewed violence following last weekend’s nationwide unrest.
Among the affected institutions are the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Musée de l’Orangerie, Picasso Museum, and Grand Palais. All five venues plan to suspend public access for the day.
Earlier, organizers cancelled Art Basel Paris at the Grand Palais over similar security concerns.
Government Orders Museums and Public Institutions to Close
On Friday, France’s Ministry of Culture urged national and public museums to suspend operations. Officials emphasized visitor safety, staff protection, and the preservation of valuable artworks.
Additionally, the Fondation Louis Vuitton confirmed its closure ahead of Saturday’s demonstrations.
Stay connected to every major update — follow PhoenixQ on our website and social media platforms.
Meanwhile, shop owners across Paris began boarding up their storefronts. Many feared another wave of looting after last weekend’s unrest damaged several businesses.
The earlier violence followed largely peaceful demonstrations across France. Protesters had expressed growing frustration over economic inequality and rising living costs.
Macron Restricts Protests and Deploys Thousands of Officers
President Emmanuel Macron announced restrictions on Saturday’s demonstrations. Under the new measures, authorities would permit only union-organized protests.
Several cities also introduced partial curfews to prevent further disorder.
According to the Associated Press, France plans to deploy approximately 70,000 law enforcement officers nationwide. Officials prohibited demonstrations in Lyon, Nice, and Montpellier because of security concerns.
However, organizers still expect marches to proceed in Paris and Marseille.
Interior Minister Laurent Nunez warned that authorities would take firm action against violence and looting.
He also reported several online calls from hard-left groups encouraging attacks on public buildings.
Furthermore, Nunez stressed that police would remain highly vigilant throughout Saturday’s demonstrations.
Macron Condemns Last Weekend’s Violence
President Macron strongly condemned the violence that erupted during the previous weekend.
He described the unrest as politically motivated actions by organized ultra-left groups seeking to destabilize the French Republic.
Moreover, Macron accused those groups of openly claiming responsibility for serious acts of violence.
French authorities now face a significant security challenge as another round of demonstrations approaches.
Consequently, officials have strengthened police operations and introduced additional restrictions.
The widespread museum closures also reflect growing concerns about public safety.
Nevertheless, the government must balance security measures with citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly.
