Olympia (Paris)

2026年8月17日

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The History and Character of Olympia

The Olympia, known in French as L’Olympia and in the English-speaking world as Olympia Hall, is a renowned concert venue located in the 9th arrondissement of Paris, France. It is situated at 28 Boulevard des Capucines, strategically positioned between La Madeleine and Opéra Garnier, and just 300 meters north of the Place Vendôme. The venue is easily accessible via several metro and RER stations, including Madeleine, Opéra, Havre–Caumartin, and Auber.

Olympia was inaugurated in 1893 by one of the co-creators of the Moulin Rouge, marking its place as the first Parisian music hall. Initially, it hosted a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, and music hall acts. The venue quickly became a cultural hub, attracting a diverse audience with its spacious hall and eclectic programming. In its early years, Olympia was known for its acrobatic performances, cross-dressing acts, and the can-can dance, drawing the elite of Parisian society to its gala opening.

However, by the late 1920s, theatrical performances at Olympia began to decline, leading to its temporary conversion into a cinema. It wasn’t until 1954 that the venue was revived as a concert hall under the direction of Bruno Coquatrix. From the 1960s onwards, Olympia became a popular venue for rock bands, solidifying its reputation as a key player in the live music scene.

In the early 1990s, Olympia faced the threat of demolition, but a preservation order ensured its survival. As part of a comprehensive renovation project in 1997, the entire building was demolished and rebuilt, although its iconic facade and interior were preserved. In 2001, the venue was acquired by Vivendi, and it continues to be a favored destination for music lovers. Olympia is easily recognized by its distinctive signage, featuring giant white-on-red glowing letters that announce its name.