Louvre’s Apollo Gallery reopened for visitors on July 22, 2026, although, for now, without the precious jewels on display. This comes nine months after the daylight heist in October 2025, when four burglars stole the French Crown Jewels worth an estimated EUR 88 million. (approximately USD 100 million). The reopening will offer visitors an opportunity to admire the Baroque interiors, gilded decor, and elaborate ceiling paintings, while diving into its rich history.
Security Tightened After The Heist
The precious jewels will now be shifted to a new high-security, windowless gallery that is being planned in the Louvre Museum. Since November, security has been boosted with the addition of new surveillance cameras and anti-intrusion systems. As part of the decade-long “Louvre New Renaissance" plan, an estimated 800 million euros, or USD 933 million, has been allotted to modernise the infrastructure of the museum, ease crowding, and also give the Monalisa a dedicated gallery by 2031.
The Missing Jewels And A Royal Legacy
Although the suspects have been arrested, most of the stolen jewels are still missing. The only recovered piece is the damaged Crown of Empress Eugenie, which is now undergoing restoration. Laurence des Cars, who headed the museum at the time of the heist, resigned after facing heavy criticism over the robbery. Leribault took over the museum's leadership in February of this year.
The gallery was originally created under the young King Louis XIV, and inspired the glittering Hall of Mirrors at Versailles. Architect Louis Le Vau designed it, and painter Charles Le Brun decorated it according to the theme of the sun, in honour of the King.
FAQs
1. Has the Louvre's Apollo Gallery reopened?
Yes. The Apollo Gallery reopened to visitors on July 22, 2026, after remaining closed following the October 2025 jewellery heist.
2. Are the French Crown Jewels back on display?
No. The jewels are currently not on display. The Louvre plans to house them in a new high-security, windowless gallery once it is completed.
3. What was stolen during the Louvre jewellery heist?
Four burglars stole the French Crown Jewels in October 2025, with the collection valued at approximately EUR 88 million. Most of the stolen pieces remain missing.
4. What security measures has the Louvre introduced?
The museum has installed additional surveillance cameras and anti-intrusion systems. It is also developing a dedicated high-security gallery as part of its broader modernisation programme.
5. Why is the Apollo Gallery significant?
The Apollo Gallery was commissioned during the reign of King Louis XIV and inspired the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles. It is renowned for its Baroque architecture, gilded interiors and elaborate ceiling paintings celebrating the Sun King.
