The Corum, Montpellier

The Corum is a prominent multi-purpose complex located in the heart of Montpellier, serving as both a conference center and an opera house. Designed by architect Claude Vasconi, it opened to the public in 1988. The building’s striking appearance, clad in pink marble, marks the visual conclusion of the Esplanade, as seen from the Comedy Square (Place de la Comédie). This architectural statement not only adds to the urban landscape but also reflects Montpellier’s ambition to become a hub for both business and cultural events.

The high construction costs of the Corum sparked significant political debate in the 1980s, particularly criticisms aimed at then-mayor Georges Frêche. Despite this, the Corum has since established itself as a landmark venue, featuring 6,000 square meters of exhibition space in its conference center, and hosting various professional and cultural events.

One of its key features is the Berlioz Opera House (Opéra Berlioz), named after the renowned composer Hector Berlioz. With a seating capacity of 2,010, the opera house has been one of the performance venues for the Opéra National de Montpellier since 1990, showcasing prestigious performances and serving as a center for cultural activities such as dance, music, and film festivals, including the Radio France Festival, Cinemed, and the Montpellier Dance Festival.

In addition to its cultural offerings, the Corum stands out as a prime location for business tourism and is recognized as one of the leading congress centers in France. Its versatile spaces can accommodate events ranging from small meetings to large international conferences. Situated in Europe’s largest pedestrian city center, the Corum provides an ideal blend of professional activities and leisure, making Montpellier a preferred destination for business and cultural tourism.