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Louvre Museum reopens after jewel heist

Visitors approach the Louvre glass pyramid amid added security, as the museum reopens after the jewel heist.
by
3 min read

Key points

  • Louvre reopened October 22, three days after the theft
  • Apollon Gallery area remains sealed behind barriers
  • Eight Crown Jewels pieces still missing
  • Security and crowding concerns under renewed scrutiny

Impact

What Changed
The Louvre reopened to visitors on October 22 with limited access near the crime scene.
Why It Matters
Travelers can visit again, but should expect partial closures and possible longer lines.
Dates
Heist on October 19; museum closure through October 21; reopening October 22.
What To Do
Book timed tickets, build buffer time, and confirm gallery access before planning a visit.

The Louvre Museum in Paris, France, reopened to the public on October 22, three days after thieves stole eight pieces from France's Crown Jewels in a daylight raid. Visitors encountered barriers coming down across most entrances, while the immediate Apollon Gallery zone remained screened off for the investigation. The reopening means most collections are accessible again, though authorities continue a high-profile manhunt and security review following one of the most audacious museum thefts in recent memory.

Louvre reopening and access

By Wednesday's reopening, most visitor pathways had returned to normal, but folding screens still blocked the doorway to the Apollon Gallery area where the smash-and-grab occurred. Museum leaders and French officials said the investigation is active, and that some spaces will remain cordoned off while forensic work continues. Travelers should anticipate crowd management near the Denon Wing and standard security checks at entry.

Latest developments, optional

French authorities say eight "priceless" objects remain missing. Officials estimate losses at about €88 million, and investigators are analyzing surveillance along the escape route. The Louvre's director, Laurence des Cars, told lawmakers the heist reflected perimeter-security weaknesses and said she offered to resign as scrutiny mounts.

Analysis

For travelers, the practical shift is that the world's most-visited museum is open again, but with constrained access around the theft site. Timed entry still applies, and the Apollon Gallery displays of the Crown Jewels are off-limits until authorities complete their work. Expect heavier foot traffic as postponed visits roll into the week; plan extra time, and verify the status of high-interest rooms before setting tight schedules.

Background: The theft happened on October 19, shortly after opening, when a team used a lift to enter via a Seine-facing window and smashed two high-security cases in the Apollon Gallery. Investigators say the operation lasted minutes and targeted Napoleonic-era pieces, including emerald and sapphire sets and items associated with Empresses Marie-Louise and Eugénie. Two objects were dropped during the escape; eight remain missing.

Final thoughts

With the Louvre Museum reopened after the jewel heist, most galleries are available again, but the Apollon Gallery vicinity is closed as the probe continues. Build flexibility into your itinerary and check for on-site detours. The primary takeaway for travelers is simple: the Louvre Museum reopens after jewel heist, with limited restrictions near the crime scene.

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