PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The Rodin Museum in Philadelphia is getting ready to reopen after three years of renovations.
The museum is home to the largest collection of sculptures by French artist Auguste Rodin outside of Paris.
The revitalization project started in 2009. It aimed to clean the pollution and grime that have built up at the institution over the past several decades. The museum first opened in 1929.
Restoration work includes interior and exterior renovations, garden rejuvenation and a reinstallation of the collection. Major pieces include "The Thinker," ''The Gates of Hell" and "The Burghers of Calais" (cah-LAY').
Media outlets previewed the changes on Wednesday. The museum will reopen to the public on July 13.
The museum was founded by Philadelphia entrepreneur and art collector Jules Mastbaum.
People walk around the renovated gardens and exterior of the Rodin Museum on Wednesday, May 16, 2012, in Philadelphia. After a three-year renovation, the museum is scheduled to reopen to the public on July 13. Photo: Alex Brandon / AP
Auguste Rodin's "The Thinker" is displayed at the entrance to the grounds of the Rodin Museum on Wednesday, May 16, 2012, in Philadelphia. After a three-year renovation, the museum is scheduled to reopen to the public on July 13. Photo: Alex Brandon / AP.
Works of art are boxed for protection in the Rodin Museum on Wednesday, May 16, 2012, in Philadelphia. After a three-year renovation, the museum is scheduled to reopen to the public on July 13. Photo: Alex Brandon / AP.
Auguste Rodin's "The Gates of Hell" is displayed at the Rodin Museum on Wednesday, May 16, 2012, in Philadelphia. After a three-year renovation, the museum is scheduled to reopen to the public on July 13. Photo: Alex Brandon / AP.