from collapse by a man called Gustave Laguionie in 1900 who then got architect René Binet to extend the premises along the Boulevard Haussmann in the Art Nouveau style. The building later burnt down, however, and its interior was rebuilt in the 1920s. One of its most striking features is the
elaborate cupola above the main restaurant. This was dismantled and moved to Clichy in 1939 to avoid being damaged in World War II. It was restored in 1973 by the grandson of the original designer, using plans that had been kept in the family’s archives.
Did You Know?
No. 14 Boulevard des Capucines is where the world’s first film was shown, by the Lumière brothers in 1895. This momentous occasion took place in the Salon Indien of the Grand Café. There is a plaque commemorating the event.
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With the department stores on your left, continue along Boulevard Haussmann until you come to rue Drouot and turn left. The Hôtel des Ventes will be at No. 9 on the left. There has been an auction house here since 1858. Emperor Napoleon III is even said to have come here in 1860 to buy some earthenware pots. Named after the Compte de Drouot, an aide-de-camp to Napoleon, this is France’s leading auction house (hôtel des ventes). It changed its name to Nouveau Drouot in the 1970s, when the old building was demolished and replaced by this rather unspectacular new one. The presence of such a famous auction house in the area has encouraged a number of antique shops to open nearby. There is an amazing view of Sacré-Coeur from this street, it seems to float above the city.
Drouot (Hôtel des Ventes)
Opening times: 11am–6pm Mon–Sat, sales 2pm
Website:
www.drouot.frTel: 01. 48 00 20 20
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Retrace your steps down rue Drouot and turn left onto Boulevard Montmartre. The Musée Grévin will be on your left at No. 10. This delightful waxworks museum was founded in 1882 and is a remarkable place, especially for children. Famous figures are on show and there are a number of historical tableaux, including Louis XIV at home in Versailles and the arrest of Louis XVI. There is also a Cabinet Fantastique which contains funhouse mirrors and hosts regular magic shows. The star of the show has to be Le Palais des Mirages, a magical room that can transform itself from a topical jungle to a Hindu temple or a Moorish palace. This is done thanks to a cunning system of mirrors and props
Opéra
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