Paris museums close over protest fears, blocking Mona Lisa viewings

Paris museums, including the Louvre, remained closed Saturday as French authorities imposed preemptive security measures ahead of expected protests, blocking tourists from viewing the Mona Lisa and other artworks. The closures followed nationwide demonstrations over cost of living and public services that escalated into severe street violence last week, prompting localized curfews and shutdowns across cultural venues like the Orangerie, Picasso museums, and Paris Opera houses. Disappointed visitors, some who paid for tickets or traveled from abroad, expressed frustration over lack of warning, while others questioned the heavy police presence, suggesting authorities may be overreacting to the planned demonstrations.