Opéra de Monte-Carlo

Overview

The Opéra de Monte-Carlo, housed in the Salle Garnier, is one of Europe's most intimate and beautiful opera houses. Designed by Charles Garnier and inaugurated in 1879, it forms part of the Casino de Monte-Carlo complex overlooking the Mediterranean.

Highlights

• Salle Garnier Interior: The 524-seat auditorium features frescoes, gilded bas-reliefs, and a ceiling painted with allegorical figures representing music and dance.
• World Premieres: The venue hosted premieres of operas by Massenet, Saint-Saëns, and Berlioz, and saw performances by Enrico Caruso and Nellie Melba.
• Ballets Russes Legacy: Sergei Diaghilev's Ballets Russes was resident company from 1911 to 1929, commissioning works by Stravinsky, Ravel, and Prokofiev.

History

Prince Charles III commissioned Charles Garnier to design the opera house as an extension to the Casino. Built in just eight months, it opened on 25 January 1879 with a performance of a Sarah Bernhardt play. The venue has been central to Monaco's cultural identity for nearly 150 years.

Visitor Tips

• Tickets: Book well in advance for opera and ballet performances; the small venue sells out quickly.
• Guided Tours: Available when no performances are scheduled, allowing access to backstage areas.
• Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours for a performance.