Palais Garnier - façade
Inaugurated in 1875 after fourteen years of work, the façade of the Palais Garnier is a manifesto: seventeen materials, seven coloured marbles, busts of composers, sculpted groups including Carpeaux's The Dance (the original is in the Musée d'Orsay), and a green dome crowned by Apollo.
Charles Garnier, an unknown thirty-five-year-old when he won the competition, invented a style that Empress Eugénie found neither Greek nor Louis XVI: "It is Napoleon III style," he replied. Tip: view the façade from the middle of Avenue de l'Opéra, deliberately left free of trees to frame it.
Frequently asked questions about Palais Garnier - façade
Where is Palais Garnier - façade located?
Palais Garnier - façade is located in the 9th arrondissement of Paris, in the Opéra area. It is easy to reach on foot from the main landmarks nearby and fits naturally into a Paris walking tour.
Is Palais Garnier - façade free to visit?
Yes, Palais Garnier - façade is free to visit — no ticket required.
How long does a visit to Palais Garnier - façade take?
Plan around 25 minutes to enjoy Palais Garnier - façade at a relaxed pace — a little more in high season or if you want to take photos.
What are the opening hours of Palais Garnier - façade?
Visite payante : généralement 10h – 18h · Vérifier les horaires saisonniers. These hours are indicative — check public holidays and exceptional closures before you go.
Is Palais Garnier - façade suitable for children?
Yes, Palais Garnier - façade (Monument) works well for families: the visit is short and combines easily with other stops around Opéra.