What Is the Name of the Opera in Paris?

By Alice Nichols

Paris, the capital city of France, is known for its rich cultural heritage and artistic legacy. The city boasts numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters that attract visitors from all over the world. Among these cultural landmarks is the famous Opera Garnier.

The Opera Garnier, also known as Palais Garnier, is one of the most iconic buildings in Paris. It is located in the 9th arrondissement and was built between 1861 and 1875. The opera house was designed by Charles Garnier, a French architect who won a competition held by Emperor Napoleon III to design the new opera house.

The Design

The Opera Garnier is a masterpiece of architectural design. It features a grand façade with ornate sculptures and carvings that depict scenes from famous operas. The building has an impressive 1,979-seat auditorium with five balconies that offer excellent views of the stage.

One of the most striking features of the Opera Garnier is its magnificent ceiling painted by Marc Chagall in 1964. The painting depicts scenes from famous operas such as Mozart’s “The Magic Flute” and Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake”. The ceiling also features Chagall’s signature style of incorporating bold colors and surreal imagery.

The Name

The official name of the opera house is Palais Garnier. However, it is often referred to simply as “Opera Garnier” or “Paris Opera”. This confusion arises because there are two opera houses in Paris – Opera Bastille and Opera Garnier.

Opera Bastille vs Opera Garnier

Opera Bastille is a modern opera house that was built in 1989 to replace the old Opera de la Bastille. It has a seating capacity of 2,700 and hosts mainly contemporary operas.

On the other hand, Opera Garnier is a historical landmark that hosts classic operas and ballets. It is the older of the two opera houses and has a more ornate and grandiose design compared to Opera Bastille.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the name of the famous opera house in Paris is Palais Garnier. However, it is commonly referred to as Opera Garnier or Paris Opera.

The Opera Garnier is a magnificent building with a rich history and cultural significance. It is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Paris who has an appreciation for art and architecture.