The Louvre's Apollo gallery reopened to the public on Wednesday, marking the first time visitors have been able to access the space since the theft of the French crown jewels last year. The collection of precious jewels that was previously displayed has been removed, and the gallery is being returned to its original 17th-century ceremonial purpose.
Security measures at the Paris museum have been increased, including the addition of new surveillance cameras and anti-intrusion systems. The reopening comes after a brazen heist where thieves reportedly took less than eight minutes to break into the Apollo Gallery through a window and steal crown jewels valued at approximately $102 million.
The museum's security upgrades are part of the decade-long “Louvre New Renaissance” plan, initiated last year with an estimated cost of up to $933 million. This initiative aims to modernize infrastructure, alleviate crowding, and establish a dedicated gallery for the Mona Lisa by 2031.