Medieval houses of the Marais of the 15th century with half-timberings

Garnier Opera, a Napoleon III marvel, construction and history

The Garnier Opera in Paris is located in the fashionable 19th-century district of the new bourgeois and…

• Place de l'Opéra
• The Palais Garnier, located in the upscale 19th-century district of Paris's new bourgeois and capitalist elite, is a neo-baroque architectural masterpiece that bears witness to the splendor of the late 19th century. Commissioned by Napoleon III after an attempt on his life in 1858, this monumental opera house was designed by architect Charles Garnier, chosen from 171 competitors. Construction began in 1861 and was completed in 1875, after Napoleon III's abdication. The opera house's eclectic style blends Baroque and neo-Renaissance, reflecting the aspirations of society at the time for luxury and performance. Construction was marked by budgetary and technical problems, including unstable foundations and the need to install steam pumps to pump water from the ground. Despite these challenges, the opera house was inaugurated in two stages, first in 1867 with only the main façade completed, and then in 1875 after the building had been completely finished. The Palais Garnier boasts a sumptuous interior, including a grand staircase, grand foyer and auditorium seating up to 2,000. The opera house also boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, richly decorated salons and sophisticated technical areas for stage and backstage. Over the years, the Palais Garnier has undergone modernization and restoration to preserve its historic heritage and ensure its functionality as a venue for ballet and opera performances. Today, it remains one of Paris's most emblematic monuments, attracting visitors from all over the world with its architectural beauty and fascinating history.