The Theatre de l'Opera, the first french operahouse, was built between 1862 and 1875, according to plans drawn by Charles Garnier, architect.

It is the largest theatre in the World (11.000 sq. meters), an the best monumental achievement of the Second Empire. Above the steps, where the arcades lead into the theatre lobbies, some superb statues and groups, among which la Danse, by Carpeaux, are worth special notice. Upstairs, a majestic loggia opens on to magnificent foyer.

The Staircase and the auditorium are juste as sumptuous. The opera Library and Museum are in the Pavillon de l'Empereur.