New Delhi, Oct. 19 -- The Louvre Museum in Paris made headlines again this week after thieves armed with chainsaws broke in and stole nine pieces of jewellery from the "Napoleon and the Empress" collection, forcing the world's most visited museum to shut for the day. One stolen piece was later found outside the museum, according to Le Parisien. Culture Minister Rachida Dati confirmed that no injuries were reported.

This is not the first time the Louvre - or the art world - has faced a high-profile theft. In fact, museum heists have long challenged global authorities, raising questions about the security of priceless cultural heritage and the booming black market for stolen art.

Here's a look at five of the most significant art and artef...