If I had to choose one space at Palais Garnier to be my favourite, I’d have to say that it’s the Grand Foyer. With the curved (domed?) ceiling and use of mirrors bouncing lights from the windows opposite, the room very much remind me of the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles.

Plus, all of the chandeliers add another Versailles-ish layer for me.

The 18 metre high ceiling was painted by Paul-Jacques-Aimé Baudry as an homage to the history of music.

The room is rather large (154 by 13 metres), and was packed full of people. As is my usual approach, I took photos of the pieces I enjoyed while doing my best to crop everyone else out of the frame.

But realistically, the Grand Foyer was created as a space for Paris society. It was meant to be enjoyed by the masses, just as it continues to be today.

So my friend Karen and I took a selfie to commemorate our visit before heading outside to the Loggia.

See you there on Friday!

Bonne journée!

Marla