The jewel of the Monte-Carlo Casino, the Salle Garnier, is an example of the extravagence, boldness and risk-taking involved in the construction of the casino.
In the 1870s, Prince Charles III decided to include a concert hall in the Casino complex. The cultural life of the Principality had not yet developed and he wished to enrich it. Thus the Monte Carlo Opera House was born. Its construction was entrusted to the illustrious Charles Garnier, the same Garnier who gave his name to the Paris Opera.
Since then, many artists have contributed to the reputation of the hall, including Sarah Bernhardt, but also Enrico Caruso. Even today, many international stars still enjoy performing on a stage with a magical setting. Among them? Prince, Lionel Richie, Patti Smith, Peter Doherty, Jane Birkin, the legendary rock band YES, Lana del Rey and Carla Bruni.
Over the years, the Monte-Carlo Opera has become a place where members of the cultural avant-gardes flourish and has risen to the rank of one of the most eminent European stages. The excellent acoustics of the Salle Garnier allow the public to enjoy astonishing shows, such as the Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival. In any case, in December 2019, it was announced that Italian mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli had been appointed the next director of the Monte-Carlo Opera. Taking up her post in 2023 will mark the beginning of a new era as she will be the first woman to head the Monégasque institution.