ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Arrest Made in Theft of Ancient Gold Torque from French Museum

cultural-heritage · 2026-07-28

In Burgundy, French authorities have taken a man into custody linked to the audacious theft of a gold torque, estimated to be 2,500 years old, from the Musée du Pays Châtillonnais. This Iron Age artifact, a twisted gold neck ring, was snatched from its display in a rapid burglary that left the local heritage community in disbelief. The arrest was made following a probe by the gendarmerie, but specifics regarding the suspect and the torque's recovery have not been revealed. Situated in Châtillon-sur-Seine, the museum features important Celtic and Gallo-Roman artifacts, underscoring the ongoing security challenges faced by regional museums safeguarding invaluable archaeological items.

Key facts

  • A man was arrested in connection with the theft of a 2,500-year-old gold torque.
  • The theft occurred in broad daylight at the Musée du Pays Châtillonnais in Burgundy.
  • The gold torque is an Iron Age artifact dating back 2,500 years.
  • The museum is located in Châtillon-sur-Seine, France.
  • French police (gendarmerie) conducted the investigation.
  • Details about the suspect and recovery of the torque are not yet disclosed.
  • The theft underscores security challenges for regional museums.
  • The museum holds significant Celtic and Gallo-Roman collections.

Entities

Institutions

  • Musée du Pays Châtillonnais
  • French police
  • gendarmerie

Locations

  • Châtillon-sur-Seine
  • Burgundy
  • France

Sources