France’s highest court has upheld former President Nicolas Sarkozy’s second criminal conviction, confirming his sentence for illegal campaign financing tied to his 2012 presidential bid.
The ruling marks another major setback for the former French leader, who has faced multiple legal challenges in recent years.

France Upholds Ex-President Sarkozy’s Second Criminal Conviction

A French official has been accused of drug-facilitated abuse of over 200 women by spiking their drinks before taking them on walking job interviews. The powerful diuretic would make them lose bladder control, forcing some of them to pee in the open while others wet themselves. Christian Nègre didn't allow them to use the toilet, making their situation worse. He has held senior positions at France's culture ministry and would interview women for ministry roles. The man reportedly kept a spreadsheet labelled "Experiments", with the dates, doses and the reactions of these women, Daily Mail reported. Allegations against Nègre first came to light in 2018 after a colleague accused him of trying to photograph a senior official's legs. Later, the police found that he had been carrying out a form of abuse called "chemical submission". While he was removed from the government position in 2019, he continues to work in the private sector as the case drags on.&nbsp;The lawyers representing the women are angry at the six-year-long delay in getting them justice. Many victims say the long wait has left them angry and exhausted. Another said she was diagnosed with PTSD and stopped applying for jobs. Louise Beriot, a lawyer for several of the women, said, Nègre did all this under the pretext of a "sexual fantasy”. "This is about power and domination over women’s bodies … through humiliation and control." Unions say it reeks of a "systemic problem" as no action was taken against him following complaints that he took pictures of women's legs during meetings.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/bizarre-male-rant-flood-woman-phd-post-on-x-men-are-not-impressed-1764065391169">'Degree on That Chick’ trend goes viral after bizarre male rant on woman's PhD post: 'Men aren't impressed...'</a><h2>Women recount horrifying and humiliating ordeal</h2> Some of the victims have detailed their ordeal at the hands of Negre, who sought to abuse and control them by drugging them and then not forcing them to continue with the walking interviews. The women said they experienced dizziness and trembled, and were left feeling humiliated. Marketing expert Sylvie Delezenne recalled that she travelled to Paris in 2015, where Nègre took her around the Tuileries gardens for the interview. She was forced to continue to walk as she started feeling ill and was denied a toilet break. She was forced to relieve herself beside a tunnel while Nègre covered her with his jacket. The episode left her devastated, she said.Anaïs de Vos, another candidate Nègre interviewed, wet herself while struggling to reach the toilet of a cafe. She alleged that he locked gaze with her and asked whether she "needed a wee". However, he refused to let her go, leading to the humiliating consequence.&nbsp;

A former French civil servant abused women by drugging them with an object that made them lose control of their bladders. He didn't allow them to use the toilet, leading them to either peeing in the open or wetting themselves. Lawyers say he did this as a "sexual fantasy”. 

A French official has been accused of drug-facilitated abuse of over 200 women by spiking their drinks before taking them on walking job interviews. The powerful diuretic would make them lose bladder control, forcing some of them to pee in the open while others wet themselves. Christian Nègre didn't allow them to use the toilet, making their situation worse. He has held senior positions at France's culture ministry and would interview women for ministry roles. The man reportedly kept a spreadsheet labelled "Experiments", with the dates, doses and the reactions of these women, Daily Mail reported. Allegations against Nègre first came to light in 2018 after a colleague accused him of trying to photograph a senior official's legs. Later, the police found that he had been carrying out a form of abuse called "chemical submission". While he was removed from the government position in 2019, he continues to work in the private sector as the case drags on. The lawyers representing the women are angry at the six-year-long delay in getting them justice. Many victims say the long wait has left them angry and exhausted. Another said she was diagnosed with PTSD and stopped applying for jobs. Louise Beriot, a lawyer for several of the women, said, Nègre did all this under the pretext of a "sexual fantasy”. "This is about power and domination over women’s bodies … through humiliation and control." Unions say it reeks of a "systemic problem" as no action was taken against him following complaints that he took pictures of women's legs during meetings. Also Read: 'Degree on That Chick’ trend goes viral after bizarre male rant on woman's PhD post: 'Men aren't impressed...' Women recount horrifying and humiliating ordeal Some of the victims have detailed their ordeal at the hands of Negre, who sought to abuse and control them by drugging them and then not forcing them to continue with the walking interviews. The women said they experienced dizziness and trembled, and were left feeling humiliated. Marketing expert Sylvie Delezenne recalled that she travelled to Paris in 2015, where Nègre took her around the Tuileries gardens for the interview. She was forced to continue to walk as she started feeling ill and was denied a toilet break. She was forced to relieve herself beside a tunnel while Nègre covered her with his jacket. The episode left her devastated, she said. Anaïs de Vos, another candidate Nègre interviewed, wet herself while struggling to reach the toilet of a cafe. She alleged that he locked gaze with her and asked whether she "needed a wee". However, he refused to let her go, leading to the humiliating consequence.

A former French civil servant abused women by drugging them with an object that made them lose control of their bladders. He didn't allow them to use the toilet, leading them to either peeing in the open or wetting themselves. Lawyers say he did this as a "sexual fantasy”.&nbsp;

French official allegedly drugged 200-plus women to force them to pee — ‘sexual fantasy’ scheme exposed

Authorities have made four new arrests in the massive $102 million Louvre heist, as investigators widen the probe into what is being called one of Europe’s most sophisticated art theft operations. This video covers the latest developments, how the suspects were traced, and what police believe about the broader network behind the record-breaking robbery.

$102 Million Louvre Robbery Probe Widens With Fresh Arrests 

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has been released from La Santé prison in Paris after serving three weeks of a five-year sentence for criminal conspiracy related to his 2007 presidential campaign financing.


France: Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy to publish prison memoir on his 20 days behind bars

Activists are protesting the transfer of 11 dolphins from India to France’s Beauval Zoo, citing concerns about animal welfare and ethical treatment. The demonstration highlights growing public awareness about the rights of marine animals and international zoo transfers. Conservationists argue that relocating dolphins across countries can impact their health, social structures, and adaptation, calling for stricter regulations on wildlife movement. Authorities maintain the transfer complies with legal and veterinary guidelines, but activists continue to demand a halt to the operation.

France: Activists Demand Halt to Dolphin Transfer to France’s Beauval Zoo

Pakistan's propaganda stands exposed once again. Struggling to create a perception that its military is better than India's, the Pakistani media didn't hold back from using fake news to claim that the May conflict reflected their air superiority. The French Navy trashed their article, leaving their bosses in Islamabad's power circles red-faced once again.


France debunks Pak media's claim on Rafale, Pakistan's claim over downing Rafale busted

France: Pak Media Report About Rafale Riddled With Misinformation

French Navy Slams Pak Media Report, Calls It 'Fake News Riddled With Misinformation'

French Navy Has Reacted to Pakistan's Prominent Channel and Editor's Claims

Wine lovers may be celebrating record flavors, but winegrowers across key regions are struggling as shrinking harvests devastate production. Reduced yields have sparked widespread protests, with growers demanding government support and warning of long-term impacts on vineyards, rural economies, and future wine supplies. Here’s what’s driving the crisis and how it’s reshaping the wine industry.

Diners Celebrate, Winegrowers Struggle: Shrinking Harvest Sparks Protests 

France reached the 2026 World Cup with a 4-0 win over Ukraine on Thursday as the country marked the 10th anniversary of the 2015 Paris attacks, while Portugal were made to wait after losing 2-0 in Dublin as Cristiano Ronaldo saw red.&nbsp;Norway must also be patient after Italy struck late in Moldova to prevent them from stamping their ticket to next year's tournament in North America.&nbsp;France's victory came in an emotionally-charged Parc des Princes, which observed a minute's silence to mark the 10th anniversary of the attacks in and around Paris on Friday, November 13, 2015.&nbsp;Most of the 130 people killed in the attacks lost their lives at the Bataclan concert hall in the capital, where they were attending a concert.&nbsp;But one person died near the Stade de France in the northern Paris suburb of Saint-Denis, where multiple explosions took place as suicide bombers attempted to enter the ground during a friendly between Les Bleus and Germany.&nbsp;Didier Deschamps was the coach then and remains in charge now, with the approaching World Cup to be his final tournament before stepping down.&nbsp;"Given the context tonight, we are pleased to have put some smiles on faces by securing qualification," said Deschamps.&nbsp;"We have fulfilled our objective. I understand that it is seen as normal that France qualify but we still had to go out and do it, so we are very proud."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Second-half goals by Kylian Mbappe and Michael Olise, as well as a first international strike for Hugo Ekitike, gave Deschamps' side an unassailable six-point lead over both Iceland, who beat Azerbaijan 2-0, and Ukraine at the top of Group D.&nbsp;While France can now look forward to the draw for the finals, which takes place in Washington, DC, on December 5, Ukraine and Iceland meet each other on Sunday in a shoot-out to decide who continues on into the play-offs next March.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>Sad, disappointed</h2>Portugal would have secured top spot in Group F with a win against the Republic of Ireland.&nbsp;But a Ronaldo red card for violent conduct when trailing 2-0 to a Troy Parrott brace meant Portugal remain on 10 points, three ahead of the Irish and two ahead of Hungary, who won 1-0 against Armenia.&nbsp;Portugal's final group match will be against Armenia in Porto on Sunday, while Hungary welcome Ireland in what will likely be a clash for second place.&nbsp;Parrott headed the hosts into the lead on 17 minutes, before doubling up on the stroke of half-time.&nbsp;Ireland then dug in deep to frustrate their fancied opponents, whose task effectively became insurmountable when 40-year-old Ronaldo swung an elbow into Dara O'Shea's back and was dismissed after a VAR review.&nbsp;Ronaldo, the men's all-time top goalscorer in international football, could potentially miss the start of the World Cup if Portugal qualify, depending on the length of his ban."We didn't manage (to win), we're sad and disappointed with what we did here today," Portugal midfielder Bernardo Silva said.&nbsp;Despite romping to an Erling Haaland-inspired 4-1 win over Estonia, Norway will also have to wait until the final matchday to wrap up their berth at the World Cup.&nbsp;Forwards Alexander Sorloth and Haaland both netted doubles in the space of 12 second-half minutes earlier in Oslo, but the Norwegians had to wait on Italy's later match against Moldova before they could be certain of topping Group I.&nbsp;The Moldovans looked to have done enough to send Stale Solbakken's side to the finals, until Gianluca Mancini struck on 88 minutes to send Italy on the way to a victory that kept their automatic qualification hopes alive.&nbsp;Inter Milan forward Pio Esposito doubled Italy's lead in injury time to ensure Sunday's meeting between the Italians and Norway at the San Siro will be a blockbuster.&nbsp;Three points separate the pair but Norway hold an imposing head-to-head record over Italy after cruising to a 3-0 win in their encounter in June.&nbsp;"It wasn't easy... We also knew that Norway had won, so it was a bit of a strange atmosphere," Sandro Tonali told Sky Sport Italia.&nbsp;"It would mean a lot to us (to beat Norway), because it might not heal the wound, but it will help us push forward."&nbsp;In Group K, already-qualified England beat Serbia 2-0 at Wembley courtesy of goals by Arsenal duo Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze, while Albania edged Andorra 1-0 to sew up second spot.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Norway must also be patient after Italy struck late in Moldova to prevent them from stamping their ticket to next year's tournament in North America.

France reached the 2026 World Cup with a 4-0 win over Ukraine on Thursday as the country marked the 10th anniversary of the 2015 Paris attacks, while Portugal were made to wait after losing 2-0 in Dublin as Cristiano Ronaldo saw red. Norway must also be patient after Italy struck late in Moldova to prevent them from stamping their ticket to next year's tournament in North America. France's victory came in an emotionally-charged Parc des Princes, which observed a minute's silence to mark the 10th anniversary of the attacks in and around Paris on Friday, November 13, 2015. Most of the 130 people killed in the attacks lost their lives at the Bataclan concert hall in the capital, where they were attending a concert. But one person died near the Stade de France in the northern Paris suburb of Saint-Denis, where multiple explosions took place as suicide bombers attempted to enter the ground during a friendly between Les Bleus and Germany. Didier Deschamps was the coach then and remains in charge now, with the approaching World Cup to be his final tournament before stepping down. "Given the context tonight, we are pleased to have put some smiles on faces by securing qualification," said Deschamps. "We have fulfilled our objective. I understand that it is seen as normal that France qualify but we still had to go out and do it, so we are very proud." ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Second-half goals by Kylian Mbappe and Michael Olise, as well as a first international strike for Hugo Ekitike, gave Deschamps' side an unassailable six-point lead over both Iceland, who beat Azerbaijan 2-0, and Ukraine at the top of Group D. While France can now look forward to the draw for the finals, which takes place in Washington, DC, on December 5, Ukraine and Iceland meet each other on Sunday in a shoot-out to decide who continues on into the play-offs next March. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Sad, disappointed Portugal would have secured top spot in Group F with a win against the Republic of Ireland. But a Ronaldo red card for violent conduct when trailing 2-0 to a Troy Parrott brace meant Portugal remain on 10 points, three ahead of the Irish and two ahead of Hungary, who won 1-0 against Armenia. Portugal's final group match will be against Armenia in Porto on Sunday, while Hungary welcome Ireland in what will likely be a clash for second place. Parrott headed the hosts into the lead on 17 minutes, before doubling up on the stroke of half-time. Ireland then dug in deep to frustrate their fancied opponents, whose task effectively became insurmountable when 40-year-old Ronaldo swung an elbow into Dara O'Shea's back and was dismissed after a VAR review. Ronaldo, the men's all-time top goalscorer in international football, could potentially miss the start of the World Cup if Portugal qualify, depending on the length of his ban. "We didn't manage (to win), we're sad and disappointed with what we did here today," Portugal midfielder Bernardo Silva said. Despite romping to an Erling Haaland-inspired 4-1 win over Estonia, Norway will also have to wait until the final matchday to wrap up their berth at the World Cup. Forwards Alexander Sorloth and Haaland both netted doubles in the space of 12 second-half minutes earlier in Oslo, but the Norwegians had to wait on Italy's later match against Moldova before they could be certain of topping Group I. The Moldovans looked to have done enough to send Stale Solbakken's side to the finals, until Gianluca Mancini struck on 88 minutes to send Italy on the way to a victory that kept their automatic qualification hopes alive. Inter Milan forward Pio Esposito doubled Italy's lead in injury time to ensure Sunday's meeting between the Italians and Norway at the San Siro will be a blockbuster. Three points separate the pair but Norway hold an imposing head-to-head record over Italy after cruising to a 3-0 win in their encounter in June. "It wasn't easy... We also knew that Norway had won, so it was a bit of a strange atmosphere," Sandro Tonali told Sky Sport Italia. "It would mean a lot to us (to beat Norway), because it might not heal the wound, but it will help us push forward." In Group K, already-qualified England beat Serbia 2-0 at Wembley courtesy of goals by Arsenal duo Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze, while Albania edged Andorra 1-0 to sew up second spot. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Norway must also be patient after Italy struck late in Moldova to prevent them from stamping their ticket to next year's tournament in North America.

FIFA World Cup qualifiers: France qualify for as Portugal, Norway forced to wait

France paid an emotional tribute on Thursday to 130 people killed 10 years ago during a rampage by Islamic State gunmen and suicide bombers targeting cafes, restaurants and the Bataclan concert hall.


France honours victims of Paris attacks' deadly night of terror

French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to help draft a new constitution for Palestine, signaling France’s support for political reform and stability in the region. The announcement comes amid ongoing efforts to promote peace and strengthen governance structures.


French President Macron Vows to Help Palestine Create Constitution 

French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to help draft a new constitution for Palestine, signaling France’s support for political reform and stability in the region. The announcement comes amid ongoing efforts to promote peace and strengthen governance structures.

French President Macron Promises to Draw New Constitution for Palestine

Authorities in France are reporting a surge in youth radicalization, giving rise to a new generation of jihadists. Experts warn that social media influence, extremist networks, and local grievances are fueling the trend. Security agencies are stepping up counter-terrorism measures to address the evolving threat.

France Faces a New Breed of Jihadists as Youth Radicalization Surges

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has been released from La Santé prison in Paris after serving three weeks of a five-year sentence for criminal conspiracy related to his 2007 presidential campaign financing.

France: Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy Granted Early Release

Nicolas Sarkozy Walks Out of Prison After Three Weeks

Louvre Robbery Shocks France: In a stunning daylight robbery, thieves stole eight priceless pieces of French Crown Jewels worth approximately $102 million from the Louvre Museum. The security system’s password was simply “Louvre,” highlighting a major vulnerability.

Louvre Robbery Shocks France: Weak Surveillance Password Revealed

France: The National Assembly approved by one vote a nonbinding resolution urging the repeal of a 1968 agreement with Algeria.


France: Major legislative victory for Marine Le Pen’s National Rally

French President Emmanuel Macron’s approval ratings have hit a new low, matching the record unpopularity once seen by former President François Hollande. Growing public dissatisfaction over economic issues, immigration policies, and pension reforms has fueled discontent across France.


France politics: Macron's approval rating drops to historic low 

French authorities continue their investigation into the stolen jewels from the Louvre, arresting additional suspects as questions rise about a possible inside job. The daring heist has shocked Paris, with police working tirelessly to recover the priceless treasures. Stay updated on the latest developments, police raids, and insider suspicions surrounding one of France’s most audacious art thefts.


Former thief predicted Louvre's weak spot 

Paris police have arrested five more suspects in the audacious $102 million Louvre jewel heist — but the legendary royal crowns remain missing. Investigators are now tracing international black-market networks and re-examining ignored security warnings. A former thief, who once consulted for the museum, claims he warned the Louvre about critical vulnerabilities months before the daring daylight robbery. As police chase leads across Europe, the priceless jewels are still at large. Watch the full breakdown of the shocking twists, elite suspects, and high-stakes manhunt gripping France and beyond.

Paris Heist: $102 Million Crown Jewel Mystery Deepens! 

French authorities continue their investigation into the stolen jewels from the Louvre, arresting additional suspects as questions rise about a possible inside job. The daring heist has shocked Paris, with police working tirelessly to recover the priceless treasures. Stay updated on the latest developments, police raids, and insider suspicions surrounding one of France’s most audacious art thefts.

Louvre Heist Mystery: Inside Job Suspected as French Police Make More Arrests 

French authorities have detained two of the suspected robbers believed to have stolen precious crown jewels from the Louvre in a museum heist that stunned the world.


Louvre robbery: How the crime unfolded in Paris' tourist hub in 8 minutes

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu calls for compromise amid ongoing budget negotiations, urging lawmakers to find common ground to prevent political deadlock.

French PM Lecornu Appeals for Compromise in Budget Talks as Socialists Threaten to Overthrow Cabinet

The daylight heist of the famous Louver Museum has
Put spotlight on a dazzling jewel with a mysterious past
The regent diamond
A gem so legendary that even thieves at the Louver reportedly failed to steal it.
Watch this video to find out more.

'Cursed' Indian diamond that Louvre thieves failed to steal

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy is set to learn when and where he will begin serving his 5-year prison sentence for criminal conspiracy in the Libya campaign funding case. Sarkozy, who denies the charges, was convicted for allegedly accepting illegal funds from Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi to finance his 2007 presidential campaign. Despite his appeal, French law mandates enforcement of the sentence. Sarkozy becomes the first former EU head of state to face jail time.


First Ex-prez of modern France behind bars

Few landmarks capture the sweep of history, power, and art like the Louvre. Long before it became home to masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, the Louvre stood as a medieval stronghold built to protect the French capital. The story begins in 1190, when King Philip II commissioned the construction of a fortress on the Right Bank of the Seine. At the time, Paris was vulnerable to potential invasions, particularly from the English. The original Louvre featured thick walls, a moat, and a central keep. While the city grew around it, the fortress served as a strategic defensive structure.&nbsp;Over the centuries, as Paris expanded beyond its medieval boundaries, the Louvre gradually lost its military purpose. By the 16th century, under King Francis I, the fortress was transformed into a Renaissance palace. Francis, a passionate patron of the arts, invited Italian artists to his court — including Leonardo da Vinci, who brought the Mona Lisa with him to France. This marked the beginning of the Louvre’s deep connection with art and culture.<h2>Birth of a museum during revolution</h2>The Louvre’s identity as a palace continued under successive monarchs, including Henry IV, Louis XIII, and Louis XIV. New wings, courtyards, and galleries were added, turning it into one of Europe’s grandest royal residences. The Grande Galerie, running along the Seine, became a hub for artists, who were allowed to live and work there. But in 1682, Louis XIV moved the royal court to Versailles, leaving the Louvre as a space primarily for storing royal collections and hosting artists rather than housing royalty. This shift laid the foundation for its next major transformation.&nbsp;During the French Revolution, the Louvre took on a radically new role. In 1793, the revolutionary government declared the palace a ‘Museum central des arts de la Republique’ — a museum for the people. The museum opened with 537 paintings, many confiscated from the Church and the royal family. For the first time, what had been exclusive to the monarchy was now accessible to the public. Under Napoleon Bonaparte, the collection expanded dramatically through military conquests. Renamed the Musée Napoléon, the museum displayed artworks looted from across Europe. Though many of these treasures were returned after Napoleon’s defeat, this period significantly shaped the scope of the Louvre’s collection.<h2>Modernisation and the glass pyramid</h2>By the 20th century, the Louvre had established itself as one of the world’s leading art institutions. Yet, with millions of annual visitors and growing collections, the museum faced logistical and space challenges. A turning point came in 1989, when then-French President François Mitterrand inaugurated the Louvre Pyramid, designed by Chinese-American architect I. M. Pei. The striking glass-and-steel structure served as a new main entrance, streamlining visitor flow and symbolizing the blend of classical heritage and modern innovation.&nbsp;The Pyramid’s unveiling sparked heated debates in France — some saw it as a bold step into modernity, while others criticized its contrast with the classical palace. Over time, however, it has become as iconic as the museum itself, representing Paris’s ability to honor tradition while embracing the future. In the 1990s, the Louvre further expanded by converting the Richelieu Wing, previously occupied by the Ministry of Finance, into new gallery spaces. This expansion allowed for the display of more sculptures, decorative arts, and Near Eastern antiquities.<h2>A global cultural powerhouse</h2>Today, the Louvre is not just a museum — it’s a global cultural symbol. It houses over 500,000 works of art, though only around 35,000 are on display at any given time. The collection spans eight departments: Near Eastern antiquities, Egyptian antiquities, Greek, Etruscan and Roman art, Islamic art, sculptures, decorative arts, paintings, and prints and drawings. Its galleries tell the story of civilizations across millennia — from the Code of Hammurabi to the Winged Victory of Samothrace. For millions of visitors each year, the Louvre offers not just a museum visit, but a journey through human history.&nbsp;Pre-pandemic, the Louvre attracted close to 10 million visitors annually, making it the most visited museum in the world. Even today, it remains a central stop for travelers to Paris, alongside the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral.The Louvre has also extended its influence internationally. The Louvre-Lens, opened in northern France in 2012, brings the museum’s collections closer to regional audiences. In 2017, Louvre Abu Dhabi opened as part of a landmark cultural exchange, showcasing the Louvre’s global ambitions and partnerships.<h2>Symbol of France’s evolving identity</h2>The Louvre’s journey mirrors France’s own transformation. What began as a fortress of royal power became a palace of&nbsp;Renaissance art, then a revolutionary museum embodying public access to culture, and finally, a modern global institution. It stands as a testament to France’s layered history — a monument that has witnessed monarchy, revolution, empire, modernization, and globalisation. Its architectural evolution, from medieval walls to a glass pyramid, tells a story of resilience and reinvention. For visitors, whether they come to admire the enigmatic smile of the Mona Lisa or to explore centuries-old artifacts, the Louvre remains more than a museum — it’s a living archive of human civilization and a beacon of artistic achievement.

Louvre: From a medieval fortress to the world’s most iconic museum. Know its history and significance

Few landmarks capture the sweep of history, power, and art like the Louvre. Long before it became home to masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, the Louvre stood as a medieval stronghold built to protect the French capital. The story begins in 1190, when King Philip II commissioned the construction of a fortress on the Right Bank of the Seine. At the time, Paris was vulnerable to potential invasions, particularly from the English. The original Louvre featured thick walls, a moat, and a central keep. While the city grew around it, the fortress served as a strategic defensive structure. Over the centuries, as Paris expanded beyond its medieval boundaries, the Louvre gradually lost its military purpose. By the 16th century, under King Francis I, the fortress was transformed into a Renaissance palace. Francis, a passionate patron of the arts, invited Italian artists to his court — including Leonardo da Vinci, who brought the Mona Lisa with him to France. This marked the beginning of the Louvre’s deep connection with art and culture. Birth of a museum during revolution The Louvre’s identity as a palace continued under successive monarchs, including Henry IV, Louis XIII, and Louis XIV. New wings, courtyards, and galleries were added, turning it into one of Europe’s grandest royal residences. The Grande Galerie, running along the Seine, became a hub for artists, who were allowed to live and work there. But in 1682, Louis XIV moved the royal court to Versailles, leaving the Louvre as a space primarily for storing royal collections and hosting artists rather than housing royalty. This shift laid the foundation for its next major transformation. During the French Revolution, the Louvre took on a radically new role. In 1793, the revolutionary government declared the palace a ‘Museum central des arts de la Republique’ — a museum for the people. The museum opened with 537 paintings, many confiscated from the Church and the royal family. For the first time, what had been exclusive to the monarchy was now accessible to the public. Under Napoleon Bonaparte, the collection expanded dramatically through military conquests. Renamed the Musée Napoléon, the museum displayed artworks looted from across Europe. Though many of these treasures were returned after Napoleon’s defeat, this period significantly shaped the scope of the Louvre’s collection. Modernisation and the glass pyramid By the 20th century, the Louvre had established itself as one of the world’s leading art institutions. Yet, with millions of annual visitors and growing collections, the museum faced logistical and space challenges. A turning point came in 1989, when then-French President François Mitterrand inaugurated the Louvre Pyramid, designed by Chinese-American architect I. M. Pei. The striking glass-and-steel structure served as a new main entrance, streamlining visitor flow and symbolizing the blend of classical heritage and modern innovation. The Pyramid’s unveiling sparked heated debates in France — some saw it as a bold step into modernity, while others criticized its contrast with the classical palace. Over time, however, it has become as iconic as the museum itself, representing Paris’s ability to honor tradition while embracing the future. In the 1990s, the Louvre further expanded by converting the Richelieu Wing, previously occupied by the Ministry of Finance, into new gallery spaces. This expansion allowed for the display of more sculptures, decorative arts, and Near Eastern antiquities. A global cultural powerhouse Today, the Louvre is not just a museum — it’s a global cultural symbol. It houses over 500,000 works of art, though only around 35,000 are on display at any given time. The collection spans eight departments: Near Eastern antiquities, Egyptian antiquities, Greek, Etruscan and Roman art, Islamic art, sculptures, decorative arts, paintings, and prints and drawings. Its galleries tell the story of civilizations across millennia — from the Code of Hammurabi to the Winged Victory of Samothrace. For millions of visitors each year, the Louvre offers not just a museum visit, but a journey through human history. Pre-pandemic, the Louvre attracted close to 10 million visitors annually, making it the most visited museum in the world. Even today, it remains a central stop for travelers to Paris, alongside the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral. The Louvre has also extended its influence internationally. The Louvre-Lens, opened in northern France in 2012, brings the museum’s collections closer to regional audiences. In 2017, Louvre Abu Dhabi opened as part of a landmark cultural exchange, showcasing the Louvre’s global ambitions and partnerships. Symbol of France’s evolving identity The Louvre’s journey mirrors France’s own transformation. What began as a fortress of royal power became a palace of Renaissance art, then a revolutionary museum embodying public access to culture, and finally, a modern global institution. It stands as a testament to France’s layered history — a monument that has witnessed monarchy, revolution, empire, modernization, and globalisation. Its architectural evolution, from medieval walls to a glass pyramid, tells a story of resilience and reinvention. For visitors, whether they come to admire the enigmatic smile of the Mona Lisa or to explore centuries-old artifacts, the Louvre remains more than a museum — it’s a living archive of human civilization and a beacon of artistic achievement.

Once a medieval fortress, the Louvre has grown into the world’s most visited museum, blending royal history, revolutionary spirit, and artistic brilliance under one iconic glass pyramid

Thieves wielding power tools have struck at the famed Louvre Museum in Paris, stealing priceless jewels in a brazen heist that took just four minutes, according to the government.


Louvre heist: Hunt continues for thieves after priceless jewels stolen in robbery at museum in Paris

Louvre heist: France's iconic museum announces closure after robbery

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has survived a no-confidence vote, narrowly avoiding the collapse of his government.
The political maneuver to suspend controversial pension reforms played a key role in securing enough support to keep the administration afloat.


French PM Survives No-Confidence Vote | Pension Reform Suspension Saves Lecornu's Government | WION 

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