Twelve opera houses came before the Garnier, of which 11 went up in flames and the 12th just didn’t make the cut to be worthy of 19th century France. The Garnier was commissioned by Napoleon III to be built by the architect Charles Garnier. The Palais Garnier is a visually stunning building so full of intricate architectural detail and majesty that I simply cannot think of another place in Paris that rivals it. There is a place in Paris so beautiful, so magical in its timeless detail, that it moves me every time I visit it.
Lisa Buros-Hutchins goes back stage at this very famous Paris landmark…
It was the cultural centre of Paris in the Belle Epoque years and continues to wow visitors with the ballets that are performed on its illustrious stage. Throughout the tour, expert and enthusiastic guides from the Opera de Paris point out the splendid paintings and sculptures that help to make the Opera Garnier one of the most rewarding museums in Paris, as well as one of its most impressive working theatres.The Paris Opera House or Palais Garnier is one of Paris’ most magnificent buildings, a place of mirrors, gilt, lush and plush accoutrements. Imagine the swish of crinolines as you admire the breathtaking décor and stroll through vast foyers, filled with sparkling mosaics, colorful marble columns and gold-leaf flourishes.Įverywhere you look at will be a feast for the eyes. You will set eyes on the writhing snakes of the bronze “Pythonisse” sculpture, before climbing the double stairway of the “Grand Escalier” (Main Staircase). Garnier’s unique signature will be pointed out among the magnificent arabesques, before you move on to explore the building's galaxy of riches. Once you have met your guide at the entrance of the museum, you will be taken to the “Rotonde des Abonnes” (Members’ Rotunda), once used as the formal welcome area for opera guests. Inaugurated in 1875 and named after its exciting young architect, Charles Garnier, it is the largest opera house in Europe. Take this 90-minute guided tour of Opera Garnier, walk through its public areas and discover flamboyant art works as you follow in the footsteps of fashionable 19th-century French society.
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