France is a popular tourist destination throughout the year, with each season offering its unique charm. Presently, the weather is pleasant, and the fall foliage is stunning. However, according to a recent update on Saturday, the Louvre and Versailles Palace in Paris have been closed due to bomb threats.
Why Was The Country On High Alert?
🌍 Dear visitors,
For security reasons, the Palace of Versailles is evacuating visitors and closing its doors today Saturday October 14. Thank you for your understanding. pic.twitter.com/2UoPlk9RYr— Château de Versailles (@CVersailles) October 14, 2023
On October 14, a bomb alert was issued at the famous Palace of Versailles, which is located in Versailles commune, near the French capital of Paris. In France, the situation is currently on high alert. And these two incredibly popular tourist locations, along with several other tourist destinations in Paris, were ejected immediately. Local officials and security forces removed the palace’s visitors, and the site was closed until further orders were issued.
Clips published on social media showed the tourists hurrying out as the alarm went off. The notice was issued after an anonymous communication about a bomb threat was received on the internet. Moreover, The Louvre Museum in Paris was closed today due to security concerns. “For security reasons, the Musee du Louvre is closing its doors today, Saturday, October 14,” the museum said on X.
🌍 All visitors with a ticket for slots from 2 p.m. will be refunded. For any questions, you can contact the Château de Versailles: https://t.co/R2dIOtCiS3 https://t.co/ndifLVL5kC
— Château de Versailles (@CVersailles) October 14, 2023
People who were unable to attend the museum today have been guaranteed a refund. In reality, the French government has deployed 7000 troops to ensure that nothing goes wrong. For additional security, French President Emmanuel Macron has authorised up to 7000 soldiers. According to reports, the Louvre alone draws between 30000 and 40000 visitors every day.
Moreover, the closure of the Louvre and the Palace of Versailles comes just one day after France upgraded the degree of alert following the murder of a teacher in Arras, the country’s northernmost city. However, on X, Louvre wrote that the museum will be opening on Sunday.
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Tourist Season In France
🌎 For security reasons, Château de Versailles Spectacles is due to evacuate visitors of the Musical Fountains Shows this Saturday afternoon and to cancell the « Mozart: Requiem » concert planned tonight.
Details of postponement or refund will follow early next week. pic.twitter.com/QKjY3akAVR
— Château de Versailles Spectacles (@CVSpectacles) October 14, 2023
October is a transitional month in France, as it marks the shift from late summer to early autumn. The tourist season in France during October can be quite pleasant. However, tourist crowds are thinner compared to the peak summer months, making it a more comfortable time to explore the city’s attractions, museums, and historic sites. It’s also a great time to enjoy Parisian cafes and fall foliage in the city’s parks and gardens.
Recent updates are still underway for France and these two tourist attractions.
Cover image credits: Canva
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