An Afternoon at the Opera

This is the first glimpse of Paris as you step off the Roissybus from the airport. As we arrived late on Friday evening the space was filled with elegant Parisians leaving the Opera Garnier. We vowed to return the next afternoon to take a peek inside. Apologies now for a picture laden post!

I'm just going to show you some of my photographs, as I have run out of superlatives to describe the splendour of this building. It just fills you with a soaring feeling of awe and wonder as you gaze at the sheer opulence of the place.

The actual theatre itself is quite small, but has a beautiful ceiling painted by Marc Chagall, one of my favourite artists.

The viewing gallery was miniscule, and we had to patiently wait to get these shots, (with our fellow Europeans who have a limited concept of the art of queuing)

It seems that a trip to the Opera was really an opportunity to see and be seen by society's finest, and  long galleries were built for the sole purpose of promenading in your finery.

We were able to step out onto the balcony and view the wide boulevards around the Opera.

More ornate lighting .... imagine a time when these were candle-lit.

Down below the theatre is a sort of grotto area, dark and cave-like.

Which reminds me .... I must, must, must get to see the Phantom of the Opera as soon as I can! It's been on my list for years now!

We couldn't believe that entrance to this incredible building was absolutely free .....

.... but we still couldn't afford anything in the shop..... trop cher for us I'm afraid!

My daughter couldn't resist trying a feather mask .....

.... and I really fancied one of these lovely lamps, but I consoled myself with the thought that I wouldn't be able to get it in my hand luggage. Oh well ... another time perhaps!