Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole, Opera house and theatre on Petit-Saulcy island, Metz, France
The Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole is an opera house and theatre building with Neoclassical design on Petit-Saulcy island in Metz. It contains 750 seats and displays the characteristic features of an 18th-century French theatre.
Duke de Belle-Isle, governor of the Three Bishoprics, launched the redevelopment of the Petit-Saulcy island in 1732, draining it and building embankments and four bridges. The Messin architect Jacques Oger directed construction of the theatre from 1738 to 1752, with work suspended for eight years during the War of the Austrian Succession. It opened with a public ball on 3 February 1752 and has kept its theatrical use ever since.
The house maintains permanent choir and ballet companies that perform classical operas, contemporary plays, and dance pieces throughout each artistic season.
The building sits on Place de la Comédie on an island accessible by footbridges. The location offers clear pathways and entrances, making it easy for visitors to approach and explore the venue.
The building ranks among the oldest continuously operating opera houses in France and has shaped the cityscape for centuries. Its setting on an island gives it a distinctive geographical position in the heart of the city.
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