Getty Villa Museum Resumes Full Operations Following Fire Closure

The Getty Villa Museum in Pacific Palisades is set to welcome visitors back to its full schedule starting Wednesday, following a phased reopening that began three weeks ago. This comes after a six-month hiatus due to the devastating Palisades Fire.

Initially closed since January 7, when the fire erupted, the museum had cautiously opened its doors with limited hours on June 27. The Los Angeles Fire Department played a crucial role in protecting the museum from the flames, which threatened to engulf the historic site.

"The Villa was spared through the valiant efforts of the LAFD firefighters in the surrounding neighborhoods and targeted water drops," Getty representatives noted, expressing gratitude for the firefighters' dedication.

While the fire did not damage any of the museum's galleries or collections, it did wreak havoc on the grounds, destroying trees, plants, and the irrigation system. During the closure, extensive cleanup efforts were undertaken, including flushing the water system and replacing air and water filters. Over 1,300 fire-damaged trees were removed as part of these efforts.

"Museum galleries and library archives were sealed off from smoke by state-of-the-art air handling systems," stated J. Paul Getty Trust President Katherine Fleming. "The double-walled construction of the galleries also provides significant protection for the collections."

Beginning July 16, the Getty Villa will operate from Wednesday to Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with an increase in daily reservations available for guests. A new exhibition titled "The Kingdom of Pylos: Warrior-Princes of Ancient Greece" will also be unveiled, featuring over 230 art pieces and artifacts from Messenia.

Admission remains free, but reservations are required and can be made online or by calling (310) 440-7300. Parking is available for $25, reduced to $15 after 3 p.m.