Louvre's Apollo Gallery reopens, 9 months after heist

The Louvre has officially reopened its historic Apollo Gallery to the public for the first time since October 2025. This move comes nine months after a high-profile heist where thieves used a truck-mounted crane to breach the museum through a window during opening hours. The robbery resulted in the loss of crown jewels valued at approximately 88 million euros and prompted an immediate closure of this section of the museum.

Following the theft, the museum administration conducted a full review of its security procedures. Officials confirmed that the gallery will now return to its original 17th-century ceremonial purpose, devoid of the precious jewels and high-value artifacts that previously occupied the space. These items have been moved to other areas within the museum to better manage their protection and display.

Christophe Leribault, the current director of the Louvre, stated that the reopening provides visitors a chance to focus on the architecture and décor of the room. The gallery features notable gilded ceilings and frescoes by artists such as Charles Le Brun and Eugène Delacroix. The institution is currently midway through a decade-long modernization project to upgrade its facilities.

Security remains a priority for the museum, which welcomes up to 9 million visitors annually. New surveillance cameras and anti-intrusion systems are now active throughout the premises as part of an 800 million euro security plan. Minister of Culture Catherine Pegard noted that while the theft caused significant trauma for the institution, the facility is moving forward with stricter protocols to ensure the site remains protected for the public.