Louvre reopens Apollo Gallery after a brazen heist, but no jewels on display

The Louvre has officially reopened its famed Apollo Gallery to the public following a high-profile heist last year that saw 88 million euros in crown jewels vanish. While visitors can once again walk through the historic space to admire its gilded ceilings and intricate Greek frescoes on their way to see the Mona Lisa, they will notice a significant change. The room is now devoid of its former exhibits.

Museum leadership decided to strip the gallery of its display cases and jewelry collections. The decision marks a shift back to the space’s original 17th-century ceremonial purpose. The stolen items remain missing nine months after the robbery, which took place in broad daylight and exposed major gaps in museum security protocols. Director Christophe Leribault noted that the reopening offers a chance to focus on the architecture and decor that define the room.

This move arrives after a period of intense scrutiny for the institution. The previous director resigned earlier this year following the heist and a series of management failures that undermined confidence in the museum. Culture Minister Catherine Pegard acknowledged the event as a trauma for both the museum and the public, emphasizing the fragility of cultural landmarks that were previously thought to be unshakeable.

Security remains a primary focus for the Louvre. Officials have installed new surveillance cameras and sophisticated anti-intrusion systems throughout the facility. This project is a central component of the decade-long, 800 million euro 'Louvre New Renaissance' plan. The broader effort seeks to modernize infrastructure and manage the high volume of visitors expected as the museum continues to draw millions of guests each year.