If you’ve ever read the classic novel, “The Phantom of the Opera,” or seen the famous musical adaptation, then you know that the Paris Opera House is more than just a beautiful venue for watching operas and ballets. Beneath its stunning architecture lies a mysterious labyrinth of tunnels, rooms, and passages that have captivated audiences for decades. In this article, we’ll explore what lies beneath the Paris Opera House and uncover some of its secrets.
The History
The Paris Opera House, also known as Palais Garnier, was built in 1861 by architect Charles Garnier during the reign of Napoleon III. It was designed to be a grand theater that would showcase France’s cultural superiority to the world.
However, during its construction, Garnier discovered that there were several underground water sources that needed to be diverted. To solve this problem, he decided to build an underground lake beneath the opera house.
The Underground Lake
The underground lake is one of the most fascinating features of the Paris Opera House. It spans over 10,000 square feet and is located beneath the grand foyer.
The lake was originally used as a reservoir for firefighting purposes but later became an attraction for visitors. Today it remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in Paris.
The Phantom’s Lair
According to “The Phantom of the Opera” novel and musical, there is a mysterious figure known as “The Phantom” who resides in the underground passages beneath the opera house. The character is said to have lived in seclusion for years and has become obsessed with a young soprano named Christine Daaé who performs at Palais Garnier.
While there is no evidence that such a person ever existed or that there is a hidden lair beneath Palais Garnier, it adds to the allure and mystery surrounding this iconic building.
Other Hidden Rooms and Passages
Apart from the underground lake, there are several other hidden rooms and passages beneath Palais Garnier. These include a narrow, winding staircase that leads to the roof of the opera house, an old machine room that houses the original machinery used to lift scenery and props onto the stage, and a subterranean river that runs beneath the building.
The Chandelier
One of the most iconic features of the Paris Opera House is its grand chandelier. In “The Phantom of the Opera,” The Phantom famously drops it during a performance to cause chaos. While this event is purely fictional, the chandelier does have an interesting history.
The original chandelier was made of glass and weighed over 6 tons. It was later replaced with a lighter version made of steel and crystal due to safety concerns. Today, visitors can see both versions on display in the museum located inside Palais Garnier.
Conclusion
The Paris Opera House is not just a beautiful building but also a treasure trove of hidden secrets and mysteries. From its underground lake to its mysterious phantom, there is no shortage of intrigue surrounding this iconic landmark. If you ever find yourself in Paris, be sure to take a tour of Palais Garnier and explore what lies beneath its stunning architecture.