Louvre Apollo Gallery Reopens Empty of Jewels

The Louvre’s Apollo Gallery reopened to the public with the jewel display permanently removed, and the remaining crown jewels stored in a secure, windowless location elsewhere in the museum. The room is presented as an empty ceremonial space echoing its 17th‑century function, while security has been enhanced with new surveillance and anti‑intrusion systems. The theft involved thieves disguising themselves as construction workers and using balcony access to smash cases, and it has prompted leadership changes and a broader review of museum security across France. The value and specifics of the stolen items are updated, with the new note referring to a $102 million heist reported last October rather than the €88 million figure previously cited. Visitors and guides welcomed the reopening, noting the gallery’s architectural splendor remains striking even without the jewels. Investigators continue to search for the stolen items as the museum advances its resilience and security posture.