The Palais Garnier is the thirteenth opera house in Paris since the institution was founded by Louis XIV in 1669. Inaugurated on January 15, 1875, its construction was decided by Napoleon III as part of the capital's major renovation program. Charles Garnier, a young, unknown 35-year-old architect, was chosen to build it. Work lasted fifteen years, from 1860 to 1875. Today, it's the venue for major ballet events, and a multitude of activities take place on its forecourt every day. Photos of the orchestra, which is often present, enchanting many moments in front of this beautiful edifice.
