The Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux is a historical masterpiece located on the Place de la Comédie, in the heart of the city of Bordeaux. Built in 1780, it imposes its neo-classical style in the city of Bordeaux. Thanks to the architectural work accomplished by the artistic geniuses of the time, it ranks among the most beautiful theaters in the world. During a guided tour or during a performance, you will be captivated by the beauty of this national opera, which makes it an emblematic place of Bordeaux and which hosts many ballets and concerts every year. Discover the Grand Théâtre, one of the most beautiful opera houses in France.
The Grand-Théâtre de Bordeaux was built between 1773 and 1780 on the glacis of the Château Trompette, on the site of the Gallo-Roman forum where the “Temple des Piliers de Tutelle” was located. The construction was decided by Louis Armand du Plessis, Marshal-Duke of Richelieu in France, who awarded the work to the architect Victor Louis. The theater was inaugurated on April 7, 1780, after nearly seven years of construction, with the performance of Athalie, a tragic play by Racine
Since its inauguration, the Grand-Théâtre has been an important cultural symbol of Bordeaux, with a diversified program ranging from theater to opera, dance and concerts. The theater is also famous for its classical architecture and its imposing facade, which make it one of the most emblematic buildings in the city of Bordeaux. An architectural jewel, this monument is so spectacular that it inspired the architect Charles Garnier for the Paris Opera.
Seen from the outside, it is a sumptuous monument. Its appearance is reminiscent of a sacred temple with its 12 Corinthian columns that adorn the facade. Each column is surmounted by a stone statue representing 3 goddesses and 9 muses of Greek antiquity. At night, the statues shine thanks to a play of light. At the end of the year, lighting and projections are set up to highlight the beauty of the Grand Theatre.
These illuminated statues of muses beautifully enhance the place and make it unique. The connoisseurs will recognize the goddesses:
Venus, goddess of Love and Beauty with her two doves,
Hera, goddess of Marriage and Fertility with a peacock
and Minerva, goddess of Wisdom and War, adorning her helmet and shield.
These goddesses are accompanied by 9 muses:
When you enter the Grand Theatre, you first arrive in a vestibule where the grand staircase rises. Access to the auditorium for the public is via this staircase, which splits into two ramps on each side. The heart of the building, the majestic auditorium can accommodate 1114 people precisely. This room is sublimated by the colors of the Royalty, namely blue, gold and white. Looking up, one can admire the fresco painted by Jean-Baptiste-Claude Robin that covers the dome. Suspended from its cornice, an imposing chandelier weighing more than a ton, illuminates the spectators with its 400 lamps
The Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux opens its doors to the public outside of its performances. Guided tours are offered to discover the backstage and the history of this symbolic place of Bordeaux.
The National Opera of Bordeaux and the National Orchestra of Bordeaux also share the stage and offer some of their shows (performances, ballets, symphonic concerts…) throughout the year. Thus, the shows offered expand the repertoire of the Grand Théâtre. You can attend a show, a concert, a ballet, classical or contemporary. The Bordeaux Auditorium is now home to the Bordeaux Aquitaine National Orchestra (ONBA). Take the time to discover this exceptional monument and book your guided tour online
Departing from Place Tourny, you can board one of our tourist buses to visit the city of Bordeaux in a different way. Make yourself comfortable in our panoramic bus and discover the greatest monuments of Bordeaux. Start the tour with an audio-guided visit of the Girondins monument, the Place de la Bourse and the Water Mirror, the Cailhau Gate, the Burgundy Gate, the Big Bell, the Law Courts, the High Court, … Would you like to know more? Discover our tourist program
Bordeaux is rich in history and heritage with its 350 UNESCO listed buildings. Each one more unusual than the next, don’t miss out on discovering them.
We have put together a list of the most important places in the Port de la Lune to visit…
Cap Sciences, located in Bordeaux, is a center dedicated to scientific, technical and industrial culture, offering exhibitions, workshops and various events.
Somewhere between Neapolitan pizza and Franco-Italian cucina, Monzù makes you want to (re)discover Italy !
Located in the heart of town, Fournil Saint-Rémi offers a wide variety of hot and cold sandwiches accompanied by homemade French fries.
