It was built between 1862 and 1875. The architect Charles Garnier was relatively unknown although he had won the Rome prize in 1848.
When its construction started it was quickly suspended after the discovery of an underground lake and spring. Even though the problem was overcome, the lake persists and lies beneath the cellars of the building.
It is a large building with a vast stage with room for up to 450 artists.
The Opera seats only 2,200. It is an ornate building richly decorated with friezes, columns, and winged figures among other statues and embellishments. This richness continues inside with velvet, gold leaf, nymphs and cherubs. The auditorium’s central chandelier weighs over six tons, and its ceiling was painted in 1964 by Chagall.
Metro : Opera.
Opening hours is 10.00 to 6.00 and to 5.00 in the winter.
