Paris Museums Close or Reduce Hours Amid Record European Heat Wave

A record-breaking European heat wave has forced several Paris museums and landmarks to close early or reduce hours, while others offer free admission as a refuge. Temperatures in Paris exceeded 100°F, with France setting national heat records. The Palais de Tokyo announced an "exceptional closure," the Eiffel Tower closed at 4 p.m. instead of late night, and the Musée Carnavalet shuttered all but its air-conditioned temporary exhibition. The Louvre, typically open until 6 or 9 p.m., also closed at 4 p.m., with officials citing vulnerability to heat buildup. Conversely, the National Museum of the History of Immigration waived entrance fees, seeing increased weekday visitors. President Constance Rivière stated museums should be places of hospitality during crises. A 2022 Network of European Museum Organizations survey of 578 museums across 38 countries found over half lacked climate-friendly energy or construction, and less than 10% had studied climate change challenges. Aqua Sanfelice di Monteforte of Bridge Specialty International noted larger institutions are better equipped, but smaller ones struggle with increasing temperature extremes. At least 55 drownings in France since June 18 were linked to heat escape attempts. Officials cancelled public events and temporarily banned alcohol consumption. Notre-Dame Cathedral restricted tower access.