Located at the Place de l'Opéra in Paris's 9th arrondissement, this historic opera house was constructed between 1861 and 1875 under Emperor Napoleon III's direction. Designed by architect Charles Garnier, its elaborate style exemplifies the Napoleon III architectural movement. Originally called the new Paris Opera, it became known as Palais Garnier in recognition of its lavish design and Garnier's influence.
The building seats 1,979 and served as the main venue for the Paris Opera and its ballet company until 1989. After the opening of the Opéra Bastille, the Palais Garnier ceased to be the primary performance space but remains an important cultural and architectural landmark in Paris.