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Theater · Bordéus, Nova Aquitânia
Grand-Théâtre de Bordeaux
Neoclassical theatre from 1780, with a façade of twelve columns and statues, home of the Ópera Nacional de Bordéus.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Grand-Théâtre de Bordeaux
The Grand-Théâtre was designed by the Paris architect Victor Louis on commission from Marshal de Richelieu, governor of Guyenne, and opened on 7 April 1780 with the play Athalie by Racine. It stands on the site of a temple from the city's ancient Roman forum.
The façade, facing the Place de la Comédie, has a portico of twelve Corinthian columns crowned by twelve statues: the nine muses and three goddesses. The 88 by 47-metre building became a model of Bordeaux urban planning in the 18th century.
Inside, the Italian-style auditorium seats around one thousand, in blue, white and gold, and has a dome with a fresco. The theatre is the home of the Ópera Nacional de Bordéus, with an opera and ballet season.
In front lies the Place de la Comédie, from which the cours de l'Intendance and the rue Sainte-Catherine start. It is a good point to begin or end a walk through the centre.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 15 minutes to see the exterior; a guided tour or a performance to see the interior.
Best time
In the evening, with the façade lit up, or on a performance day. The Opera season usually runs from autumn to spring.
How to get there
Tram B to the Grand Théâtre stop at the Place de la Comédie. On foot, it's a 5-minute walk from the Place de la Bourse.
Tip
To see the auditorium, look for guided tours offered by the Opera or buy a ticket for a performance. Check the dates before you go, because tours depend on rehearsals.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Grand-Théâtre de Bordeaux
Can you visit the Grand-Théâtre inside?
Yes, on guided tours offered by the Ópera Nacional de Bordéus on certain days, or by attending a performance. Check the schedule before you go.
Who designed the Grand-Théâtre?
The architect Victor Louis. The theatre opened in 1780 and is one of the best-preserved 18th-century theatres in Europe.
Is special attire required to attend a performance?
There is no required dress code. Most of the audience dresses smartly but informally.