Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Free Day 3! The Paris Opera House and The Grande Arche

Day 27

If you've seen the movie version of the Phantom of the Opera, than I can tell you that the Paris Opéra, also known as Palais Garnier (the Paris Opera House) is just as glamorous and fantastic as you may think it is!  In fact I was more than impressed.  You just have to see the pictures to know! It was designed by Charles Garnier in the Neo-Baroque style.



There were lots of people outside, even a group of break dancers surrounded by tourists, and some ice cream!


On the magnificent staircase!


I got a sneak peek of the theatre. 


Incredible huh??!?



The Grande Arche is about 3 miles on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées from L'arc du Triomphe.  It is actually just outside the city limits, and we walked to it from the Louvre, which is just a little way away from the Paris Opera House. It was about a 5 and 1/2 mile walk.  The Avenue des Champs-Élysées has some fantastic, but expensive shopping.  It was fun to take in everything.  It is also interesting to take in the stark contrast between the neoclassical style of the L'arc du Triomphe and the extreme modern style of the Grande Arche.  Incredible!


Almost there!


Dani and Griffin holding The Arche up!


Looking back on it's neoclassical counterpart.  Lots of walking, but what a fantastic day! 

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