About the Opera Garnier

Dive into the captivating history and architectural splendor of the Palais Garnier, home to the world-renowned Opera Garnier in Paris

The Palais Garnier, a monumental opera house designed by Charles Garnier and completed in 1875, epitomizes Parisian culture and vibrancy. Nestled in the 9th arrondissement of Paris, it boasts an impressive capacity of approximately 1979 attendees and features exquisite public spaces, including the awe-inspiring foyer, subscriber rotunda, and lavishly adorned saloons. Symbolizing the essence of Parisian architecture, the Palais Garnier houses one of Europe’s largest stages, serving as the centerpiece of this architectural marvel. Beyond being a distinguished hub for opera and ballet, it is a cherished historical landmark, embodying the evolution of Parisian culture and society.

History of Palais Garnier

The illustrious Opera Garnier is a testament to luxury and cultural prominence, commissioned by Emperor Napoleon III in 1861 and completed in 1875. This iconic Parisian opera house has gracefully adorned the cityscape for 149 years, designed by renowned architect Charles Garnier in the lavish Second Empire style. Its resplendent interior and exterior reflect the extravagant tendencies of the era, characterized by monarchic extravagance amidst financial turbulence. Since its inauguration, the Palais Garnier has hosted unparalleled opera and ballet performances, capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide and leaving an indelible mark on the performing arts. As a real-time emblem of Parisian culture and creativity, Opera Garnier continues to enrich the artistic legacy of the City of Light.

Who Designed the Opera Garnier Building

The iconic Palais Garnier was meticulously designed by the renowned architect Charles Garnier, who was chosen after a rigorous selection process. Over 14 years, Garnier brought his visionary skills to life, resulting in a masterpiece renowned for its luxury and grandeur. Despite initial obscurity, Garnier’s attention to detail and artistic vision have made the Opera Garnier a global landmark, captivating audiences with its beauty and splendor for generations.

Height of Opera Garnier

The Opera Garnier rises 56 meters from the ground and 73.6 m above the stage fly tower; both are towering buildings. This marvelous work of architecture, the product of the vision of Charles Garnier, demonstrates great grandeur, splendor, and elegance that was very much the taste of that time.

Construction Of The Opera Garnier

The Opera Garnier project was carried out between 1861 and 1875. The construction of a water-sending obelisk, commissioned by Napoleon the LIIIrd, was marred by impediments such as the water brood being encountered, necessitating measures like drainage, which slowed down progress. Even amidst these difficulties, Charles Garnier proved capable of accomplishing his goal, and the Opera Garnier continues today to represent the architectural and engineering genius of that time– grand and beautiful as it is exquisitely and luxuriously designed.

Outside Of The Opera Garnier

The Opera Garnier’s exterior shows an indescribably grand style with its huge splendor facade decorated with Corinthian columns, sculptural extravagances, and large statues.
The opening’s luxurious style, blending Baroque and Renaissance architectural motifs such as figures and ornaments, sets a high standard as people smile while passing by.
The majestic roof is crowned by a highly ornamental dome, on which a golden Apollo statue perches, which embraces the Louis XVI style and symbolizes the building itself. One of the characteristic points of the panorama of Paris is the building itself.

Inside The Opera Garnier

Grand Foyer

A majestic foyer with a big ceiling and elegant interiors leads visitors to The Opera Garnier; the ornate chandeliers, wonderfully painted ceiling, and awe-inspiring staircases painted in marble will give one a feel of grandeur and luxuriance. Rather complex gilding and mirrors embellish the facade, giving it a classic echo feeling and a stunning setting up of the ensuing performances.

Auditorium

The radiant chamber was embellished with a beautiful ceiling design, painted by no other than Marc Chagall, and the ceiling depicted the varied types of imagery and colors that profoundly transformed the whole auditorium into a timeless architectural icon.

Plush, red velvet seats, elaborately decorated gilding, and an amazingly shining chandelier all witness that the theater is luxuriously decorated, which its patrons will hardly ever forget.

Top of the Opera Garnier

The Opera Garnier’s rooftop is of great wonder, the crowning of its exquisite dome and the gilded statue of Apollo at their summit. Having a location at the end of Opéra avenue, in the 9th arrondissement, it embodies the grandeur and luxury of the Second Empire era. The whole of Paris from such height is no less than a fairy tale, adding charm to this worldwide known place.

What is in the Opera Garnier?

This historic 1,979-seat opera house, located at the Place de l’Opéra in the 9th arrondissement of Paris, exudes luxury and history, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in its treasures. The grandeur of the Palais Garnier is reflected in its decor, adorned with busts of renowned figures from the opera world. Visitors can explore the largest stage in Europe, measuring 52 meters wide by 62 meters, and revel in the architectural marvel that has captivated audiences for generations. Accessible via the Opéra metro station, the Palais Garnier beckons visitors to indulge in its splendor and cultural significance.

Floors/ Parts of the Opera Garnier Building

The Opera Garnier is an indoor building, and it is a multi-level work of art composed of different areas that add to the grandeur. A magnificent foyer and an impressively decorated auditorium are also present in the same building. The marble Grand Staircase also adds to the magic, while the grand foyer mesmerizes anyone who walks through it. The visitors fall under the influence of the building decorated with the details of all building levels, foyers, salons, and performance spaces. Among the most distinctive characteristics of the Opera Garnier is its layout, which was perfectly done for both patrons and performers; hence, the general feel of the audience and cast members improves.

More information about the Opera Garnier

OPERA GARNIER TICKETS

Opera Garnier Tour

Embark on a captivating journey through the opulent halls and rich history of the Opéra Garnier with our self-guided…

Palais Garnier tickets & tours >

TRAVELER INFORMATION

Opera Garnier exhibitions

The Palais Garnier offers a rich cultural experience through permanent and temporary exhibitions. Celebrating Rudolf Nureyev’s…

Palais Garnier exhibitions >

OPERA INFORMATION

About the Opera Garnier shop

The shop at the Palais Garnier, known as the Opera’s gift shop, has a heap of cultural souvenirs for sale. While many people visit…

Palais Garnier gift shop >