The famed Apollo Gallery at the Louvre has reopened to the public following the notorious daytime robbery that resulted in the theft of crown jewels worth £75 million from the prestigious museum.
In a daring heist on October 19, 2025, a group of thieves disguised as workers infiltrated the Paris gallery by using a cherry picker to access the upper levels and then smashing glass showcases. The swift operation, lasting only seven minutes, resulted in the theft of eight valuable items, including a significant emerald and diamond necklace gifted by Napoleon I to his second wife, Marie Louise.
Despite the passage of nine months, some of the stolen jewels are still missing. Last year, four individuals suspected to be involved in the robbery were apprehended and charged in France.
Upon its reopening, the Apollo Gallery presented an unusual sight to visitors. The previous elaborate displays showcasing historic jewelry were absent, with the collection and precious items having been removed entirely. Instead, the gallery has been restored to its original 17th-century ceremonial function, allowing visitors to admire its ornate gilded ceilings and Greek frescoes on the way to viewing the nearby Mona Lisa.
Christophe Leribault, the current director of the Louvre who assumed the position in February following the resignation of Laurence des Cars post-robbery, announced that the displaced exhibits would be relocated within the museum.
To enhance security, the Paris museum has implemented advanced surveillance systems and anti-intrusion measures. This significant security upgrade, costing an estimated £683 million, aims to modernize infrastructure, alleviate overcrowding, and provide a dedicated gallery for the Mona Lisa by 2031.
As the Apollo Gallery reopens, visitors can now explore its grandeur without the presence of the stolen crown jewels. The museum’s emphasis has shifted towards appreciating the architectural beauty of the gallery, as highlighted by Leribault during the re-opening.
Visuals capturing the aftermath of the heist, such as the repaired windows and enhanced security measures, serve as reminders of the audacious robbery that took place in the heart of the Louvre.