Attraction Guide: Opéra Bastille, Paris, France

Opéra Bastille Guide

Opéra Bastille: A Modern Masterpiece of Opera Guide

The Opéra Bastille is a modern opera house in Paris, a striking contrast to the older Palais Garnier. Opened in 1989, it was designed by architect Carlos Ott and intended to be a more accessible and democratic opera house for the city. Its contemporary architecture and state-of-the-art facilities make it a must-see for opera enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike. The Opéra Bastille was commissioned as part of President François Mitterrand's "Grands Projets" initiative, aimed at modernizing Paris. The project was controversial from the start, with many criticizing its modern design and the demolition of a historic railway station to make way for the opera house. Despite the initial criticism, the Opéra Bastille has become an integral part of the Parisian cultural landscape. Visitors can attend opera and ballet performances at the Opéra Bastille, experiencing world-class productions in a modern setting. Guided tours are also available, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the opera house's architecture, stage technology, and workshops. While the Opéra Bastille itself doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, the surrounding Bastille neighborhood is known for its vibrant food scene, with numerous restaurants and cafes offering a wide range of cuisines.