When star attractions draw a few thousands too many

The temporary closure of the Louvre on June 16 owing to heavy footfall, temperature fluctuations and more, has brought into focus the plight of major museums across the world, with many buckling under the strain of accommodating thousands of visitors every day. Here’s how the world’s busiest museums are holding up:

The Louvre Museum – Paris, France

8.7mn Average number of annual visitors
Star Attraction: Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci
On June 16, the Louvre temporarily shut down as staff walked out in protest over issues like overcrowding, understaffing, building leaks, & temperature fluctuations. This rare closure at the world’s busiest museum has sparked plans for a new entrance, improved crowd control, and even a climate-controlled VIP lounge for the Mona Lisa.

The National Museum of China, Beijing, China7.4mn Average number of annual visitors
Star Attraction: Simuwu Ding (massive ancient bronze vessel)
The National Museum of China offers an immersive journey through 5,000 years of Chinese history, drawing massive crowds. it attracts about 20,000 visitors daily (as of late 2024). To manage the overwhelming foot traffic, the museum has introduced digital ticketing and is planning infrastructure upgrades to enhance the visitor experience.

Vatican Museums, Vatican City6.8mn Average number of annual visitors
Star Attraction: The Sistine Chapel ceiling by Michelangelo
In November 2018, the Vatican Museums restricted access due to overcrowding. Temperatures had risen up to 40°C in narrow corridors, causing at least 10 visitors to faint daily. Only the Sistine Chapel was air-conditioned. It highlighted the need for better crowd control.

The British Museum, London, UK6.5mn Average number of annual visitors
Star Attraction: Rosetta Stone
The British Museum is like the ultimate treasure chest, pulling in millions of curious minds each year to see wonders. By late 2018, overcrowding had become a serious issue, making the gallery feel chaotic. The museum implemented digital ticketing system and scheduled entry times to ease congestion and ensure a more enjoyable experience for visitors.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), New York City, USA
6mn Average number of annual visitors
Star Attraction: Washington Crossing the Delaware & the Temple of Dendur
The Met in New York, is a cultural giant and houses everything from dramatic American history paintings to ancient Egyptian temples. After pandemic closures, the crowds came back strong by July 2024. The surge has once again raised concerns about preservation, and overall experience for vistors.