About this place
Place Graslin is the proud centerpiece of a whole neighborhood dreamed up by the wealthy official Jean Louis Graslin in the late eighteenth century. Its star is the Théâtre Graslin, an opera house designed by architect Mathurin Crucy and inaugurated in 1788, fronted by eight Corinthian columns topped with statues of the muses. Gutted by fire in 1796, it was rebuilt in time for Napoleon's visit in 1811 and still stages opera today. Facing the theatre stands La Cigale, a brasserie opened in 1895 and decorated in exuberant Art Nouveau tilework, mirrors, and carved wood, long a haunt of artists and writers. Together they give the square an enduring sense of spectacle.
Key facts
- 1788 year — The Graslin opera house was first inaugurated
- 1895 year — The Art Nouveau brasserie La Cigale opened its doors
- 823 seats — The Italian style auditorium of the opera house holds this many
📍 Place Graslin, 44003, Nantes