The Louvre strike, though sudden, was not without cause. Workers described 'untenable' conditions worsened by overcrowding, chronic understaffing, and crumbling infrastructure. With nearly 8.7 million visitors last year—more than double what its current systems were designed to handle—the Louvre has become emblematic of cultural landmarks pushed to their limits.

Staff at the Louvre staged a rare work stoppage over poor working conditions and relentless crowds, as Europe grapples with the growing strain of overtourism.