Italy initiates €70m AI security drive after Louvre theft

October 21, 2025 / 8:43 AM

Sharjah24-WAM: A day after a daring robbery at France’s Louvre Museum, Italy’s Ministry of Culture announced plans to implement AI-based security systems capable of recognising suspicious behaviour around priceless cultural artefacts.

The ministry emphasised that the “safety of cultural heritage is now a top priority”, reflecting the urgency of protecting art and archaeological treasures amid increasing threats of theft and vandalism.

€70 million programme to enhance cultural security

According to the ministry, its Museums Department is currently developing two pilot projects focused on archaeological heritage, funded by European resources exceeding €70 million ($82 million). Originally launched in 2024, the initiative aims to enhance prevention and monitoring tools through AI technologies, big data analytics, and cybersecurity measures to better detect and mitigate risks.

Intelligent video analysis and predictive alerts

The new AI-powered systems will use intelligent video analysis to detect unusual behaviour or suspicious movements within museum environments, all while adhering to strict privacy regulations. “These technologies will enable the system to trigger timely predictive alerts,” the ministry explained, enhancing early intervention and ensuring the swift protection of artefacts and exhibits.

Harnessing AI for cultural preservation

The ministry further stated that the AI systems, powered by specially trained algorithms, will continuously learn to recognise behavioural patterns and detect potential threats with increasing accuracy. By harnessing innovation in artificial intelligence, Italy aims to position itself as a global leader in heritage preservation, ensuring that its extensive collections of historical and artistic treasures remain secure for future generations.