Bordeaux Grand Theatre, Bordeaux (must see)

The Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux is located on the grand Comedy Square, adjacent to Esprit des Lois Street, in the city’s cultured Grands Hommes quarter. Inaugurated in 1780, it was designed by renowned French architect, Victor Louis, who won the commission after earning the Grand Prix de Rome, a scholarship scheme for gifted young artists and architects. The young architect went on to design the famous Theatre-Français in Paris.

Victor Louis’ vision for the Grand Théâtre in Bordeaux was certainly ambitious – conceived as a Temple of the Arts, it has a wide portico entrance, complimenting the building’s Neoclassical design. The entrance features 12 colossal Corinthian-style columns, each topped with a statue, representing the nine Muses and three Goddesses – Juno, Venus and Minerva.

The theater's interior is arguably equal to its spectacular exterior. Its vast auditorium is painted in blue, white and gold – the traditional colors of French royalty. Superbly preserved, it is one of the last remaining wooden framed theaters in Europe. Once a temporary seat for the French Parliament, it is now home to two of the city’s most esteemed theatrical groups – the National Opera and National Ballet of Bordeaux.

Why You Should Visit:
The architecture from outside is great but inside the gold gilding and ornate decoration everywhere you look is amazing.
The pre- and post-restoration rooms on view are light and airy, and the guided tour is hugely informative.

Tip:
Check ahead to see if there are any concerts you can attend and book ahead of time.