Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Spaces

The Royal Opera

When Available: Special tours or performances only

This engineering marvel features: - Machinery to raise floor to stage level for balls - Perfect acoustics achieved through wood construction - Seats for 700 in blue and gold color scheme - Still used for performances today

The Battles Gallery

Time Needed: 20 minutes if interested in military history

Louis-Philippe created this 120-meter gallery featuring: - 33 paintings of French military victories - Busts of military leaders - Controversial selection ignoring defeats - Impressive scale rarely crowded