The Apollo Gallery at the Louvre reopened after a robbery in which no valuables were stolen
The Apollo Gallery at the Louvre has reopened to visitors nine months after the theft of royal relics worth $102 million. However, the display cases in the museum’s historic section remain empty of the jewels.
This was reported by Reuters, as cited by European Truth. Visitors can explore the interior of the 17th-century Apollo Gallery. Louvre Director Christophe Leribault stated that the jewels will henceforth be displayed in another, more secure location within the museum.
Culture Minister Catherine Pégard called the gallery’s reopening a new beginning for the museum following a “trauma for the entire world” and promised to strengthen security measures at museums across the country.
The robbery took place in October. According to European Truth, two men parked a cargo lift near the Louvre, climbed to the second floor, broke a window, and used angle grinders to cut open the display cases. They then fled on scooters along with two accomplices. The robbery lasted less than seven minutes.
Four individuals suspected of direct involvement in the crime have been charged; they are currently in custody. The stolen items have not yet been recovered, with the exception of the damaged crown of Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III. It was found near the museum and is currently undergoing restoration.
