Getty Villa Museum Set to Reopen After Fire-Related Closure
Crews at the Getty Villa Museum in Pacific Palisades are finalizing preparations for a much-anticipated reopening, following a temporary closure due to the Palisades Fire. The museum, which remained structurally intact, has undergone significant restoration efforts over the past few months.
In the wake of the fire, staff members have diligently removed over 1,300 damaged trees, conducted thorough cleanings of both indoor and outdoor areas, and replaced essential air and water filters. Despite the challenges faced by the surrounding community, the museum buildings themselves emerged unscathed.
"It is with the utmost gratitude and appreciation for Getty staff, first responders, and other agencies that we can announce the reopening of the Villa to the public," stated Katherine Fleming, president and CEO of the J. Paul Getty Trust. "Without their tireless efforts, we would not be in the position we are in today, where we can welcome back visitors and the surrounding community to enjoy the Villa grounds and collection."
The museum is set to reopen on June 27, introducing a new exhibition curated by Claire Lyons, focusing on Mycenaean culture—the earliest civilization of ancient Greece. This exhibit marks a significant milestone as it will be displayed for the first time outside of Europe.
"The Kingdom of Pylos: Warrior-Princes of Ancient Greece" will feature over 230 artifacts and works of art from Messenia, running through January 12, 2026. Timothy Potts, Director of the Getty Museum, expressed gratitude for the support received during this challenging period. "We look forward to welcoming visitors back to explore our newest exhibition, The Kingdom of Pylos, and much more of our treasured antiquities collection this summer," he remarked.
Admission to the museum remains free, with a nominal $25 fee for parking. The institution has long prioritized accessibility for school field trips, reinforcing its mission to make art available to all.
"We will issue about 500 tickets every day and we'll only be open Friday through Monday," noted Desiree Zenowich, interim VP of Communications. The museum plans a gradual reopening strategy as access to the Pacific Coast Highway has recently resumed. Visitors are advised to use PCH exclusively for access, as Sunset Boulevard remains closed.
Looking ahead, Zenowich mentioned that the amphitheater is gearing up for a stage production this fall. "It will be Oedipus the King, Mamba, which is a mash-up of Oedipus the King with music by Elvis Presley," she shared.
As civilizations rise and fall, preserving their legacy requires unwavering dedication. "The doors were shut and sealed with tape to prevent any ash or anything else from coming in," Zenowich added, highlighting the meticulous care taken during the closure.
