The Apollo Gallery at the Louvre in Paris has officially reopened to the public, marking the first time the space has been accessible since a dramatic jewelry heist occurred last year. While the gallery is once again welcoming visitors, the precious collections and crown jewels that previously occupied the space have been removed. According to museum officials, the gallery is now being returned to its original 17th-century ceremonial purpose.
The reopening follows a significant overhaul of security measures at the world-renowned museum. The facility has integrated new surveillance cameras and sophisticated anti-intrusion systems to prevent future breaches. These upgrades are part of a broader, decade-long initiative known as the “Louvre New Renaissance” plan. Launched last year, the project involves an estimated investment of up to 800 million euros ($933 million) aimed at modernizing infrastructure, reducing visitor congestion, and establishing a dedicated gallery for the Mona Lisa by 2031.
The museum’s security focus was spurred by a weekend operation that left visitors stunned and exposed glaring vulnerabilities in the institution's protection. During the incident, thieves managed to force their way through a window into the Apollo Gallery. The entire theft was executed in less than eight minutes, resulting in the loss of crown jewels valued at 88 million euros ($102 million).
