The Galerie d’Apollon at the Louvre has reopened to the public following a high-profile jewel theft that occurred last October. The gallery, known as the museum’s most opulent state room, has resumed operations without displaying the eight royal jewels stolen during the daytime raid.

Christophe Leribault, appointed in February to lead the Louvre through its post-raid recovery, emphasized the intention to restore the Galerie d’Apollon to its original ceremonial function. The long, ornate first-floor chamber was initially decorated under the orders of Louis XIV in the late 17th century and served as a model for the later Hall of Mirrors at Versailles.

In the aftermath of the theft, several exhibits were reconfigured. The remaining jewels, including three of France’s most prized diamonds—the Regent, Sancy, and Hortensia—are now secured in a windowless, high-security room separate from the gallery. These renowned gems had been displayed near the two cases that were broken into during the robbery, where thieves seized tiaras, necklaces, and other pieces once worn by French queens.

Leribault conveyed his approach as a fresh start for the gallery, stating that rather than excluding only the two targeted display cases, the Louvre will restore the entire Galerie d’Apollon to reflect its historic grandeur. He highlighted the intention to offer visitors an experience of the gallery as one of the most lavish rooms in the museum, linking it back to its origins as part of the former royal palace.

The incident led to significant changes in Louvre leadership, with Leribault succeeding Laurence des Cars following her dismissal related to the security breach. Security measures have also been enhanced, including the permanent appointment of a police superintendent to the museum’s staff.

Authorities have detained four men suspected of involvement in the robbery. Despite these arrests, investigators have yet to recover the stolen jewels or conclusively identify the criminal organizer whom the suspects claim to have acted under. The investigation remains ongoing as police continue their efforts to locate the missing items and clarify the full extent of the crime.