Italian Theatre (Théâtre à l'Italienne)
About Italian Theatre (Théâtre à l'Italienne)
The Théâtre à l'Italienne is a 19th-century theatre in Cherbourg, designed by Charles de Lalande, who worked as an assistant to Charles Garnier, architect of the Paris Opera. Built between 1879-1881 and inaugurated in January 1882, the theatre earned the nickname "Le Théâtre d'Or" (The Golden Theatre) due to its lavish red and gold interior. The 50-meter limestone façade draws inspiration from Italian Renaissance palaces, while the interior features a spectacular ceiling painted by Georges Clairin, an imposing crystal chandelier, and decorative caryatids. The theatre seats 600 across multiple gallery levels in the classic Italian horseshoe layout. Classified as a Historic Monument since 1984, it remains an active performance venue operated by Le Trident, Scène nationale. Visitors can explore the building only through guided tours organized by the Tourism Office, which must be booked in advance.
Interesting Facts
The ceiling painter Georges Clairin (1843-1919) was best known for his portraits of legendary actress Sarah Bernhardt, with whom he maintained a lifelong friendship. He received a Silver Medal at the 1889 Universal Exposition in Paris and was made Officer of the Legion of Honor in 1897.
The interior decoration was assigned by the Ministry of Fine Arts to five different renowned artists: Georges Clairin for the ceiling, Auguste-Alfred Rubé, Philippe-Marie-Emile Chaperon, Georges-Jean-Marie Haquette, and Jules Richomme for various other elements. This collaborative approach was typical of prestigious Third Republic public buildings.
The theatre's design follows the model established by Victor Louis's 1780 Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux, which became the template for Italian-style theatres across France. The horseshoe-shaped auditorium with multiple gallery tiers was designed to maximize acoustics and allow audiences to see and be seen.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Ticket Prices
Guided Tour
Recommended90-minute guided tour organized by Office de Tourisme du Cotentin. Reservation required - no walk-ins accepted. Maximum 15 people per tour. Recommended from 8 years old.
Location & Practical Info
Address
Place du Général de Gaulle, 50100 Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, France