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.

CNN reports that the strike abruptly took place during a routine meeting. Gallery attendants, ticket agents and security refused to work in protest over uncontrollable crowds, understaffing and what was referred to by a union as an “untenable” working environment. No additional details were revealed.

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.

The Louvre, the world’s most-visited museum and a global symbol of art, beauty and endurance, has withstood war, terror, and pandemic — but on Monday, it was brought to a halt by its own striking staff,