The renowned Apollo Gallery at the Louvre Museum in Paris has welcomed back visitors following a significant period of closure due to a high-profile jewellery heist that took the art world by storm. The gallery officially reopened its doors on 22nd July 2026, nearly nine months after thieves managed to carry out a brazen theft, making off with jewellery valued at more than $100 million.
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In the lead-up to the reopening, the Louvre took extensive measures to ensure the gallery was restored to its intended grandeur. The museum’s management removed not only the stolen items but also all display cases within the gallery. This decision was made in line with the museum’s aim to reclaim the gallery’s former splendour and allow the intricate painted and sculpted decorations to be displayed in their full glory. According to a press release, the museum intended for the Apollo Gallery to return to being a “stately” reception area, reflective of its original purpose.
The Apollo Gallery was once a focal point that exuded the magnificence of the French monarchy. Commissioned by King Louis XIV in 1661 and designed by the architect Louis Le Vau alongside painter Charles Le Brun, the gallery was conceived as a tribute to Apollo, the sun god. The project saw completion by architect Félix Duban in 1850, decades after Louis XIV’s passing. It is worth noting that the Apollo Gallery directly inspired the creation of the famed Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles, which was built between 1678 and 1684.
The notorious heist that led to the gallery’s closure unfolded on 18th October 2025, when thieves executed their plan with astonishing speed, completing the operation in just seven minutes. Initial investigations led to the apprehension of two suspects within days of the robbery. A subsequent police crackdown resulted in the arrest of several more individuals, with a total of eleven arrests made over the following weeks. As of now, four individuals remain in custody awaiting trial, while the others have been released.
Among the stolen treasures were several exquisite pieces of jewellery. Notable items included a sapphire tiara, a sapphire necklace, and a single sapphire earring worn by historical figures such as Queens Marie-Amélie and Hortense. Additional jewels taken in the raid included a matching emerald necklace and earrings once donned by Marie-Louise, Napoleon Bonaparte’s second wife, as well as tiaras and brooches belonging to Empress Eugénie. While the thieves were unable to retain Empress Eugénie’s crown, made of gold, emeralds, and diamonds, it was fortuitously recovered after being discarded during their escape.
At present, the remaining stolen jewels have not yet been located. In the aftermath of theheist, the Louvre has taken proactive steps to enhance security protocols. The jewellery that was not stolen and was on display in the Apollo Gallery prior to the theft has been moved to a more secure location within the museum. President Christophe Leribault assured the public that these remaining treasures are now stored in a secure vault devoid of windows.
The Apollo Gallery’s reopening represents a significant moment for the Louvre, heralding a return to normalcy following a tumultuous time. As the gallery reclaims its role as a majestic reception area, the museum invites the public to once again appreciate its artistic magnificence and historical significance. Visitors can expect a revitalised experience as the Louvre continues to honour its rich cultural heritage amidst the challenges of modern security issues.
With the Apollo Gallery back in operation, the Louvre Museum reinstates its commitment to preserving and showcasing one of the most significant collections of art and history in the world, as well as providing a space that reflects the grandeur of the French monarchy. As anticipation builds among visitors, the museum gears up for what promises to be a hopeful chapter in its storied history.