Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TOP SIGHT
PALAIS GARNIER
Few other Paris monuments have provided artistic inspiration in the way that the Pal-
ais Garnier has. From Degas' ballerinas to Gaston Leroux' Phantom and Chagall's ceil-
ing, the layers of myth painted on gradually over the decades have bestowed a partic-
ular air of mystery and drama to its ornate interior. Designed in 1860 by Charles
Garnier (then an unknown 35-year-old architect), the opera house was part of Baron
Haussmann's massive urban renovation project.
The opera house is open to visitors during the day, and the building is a fascinating
place to explore even if you're not taking in a show. Highlights include the opulent
Grand Staircase, the library-museum (1st floor) and the horseshoe-shaped auditori-
um (2nd floor), with its extravagant gilded interior and red velvet seats. Above the
massive chandelier is Chagall's gorgeous ceiling mural (1964), which depicts scenes
from 14 operas.
Visits are generally unguided, though three days a week you can reserve a spot on
an English-language guided tour. Staff advise showing up at least 30 minutes ahead of
time. Check the website for updated schedules.
