Entertainment
Moulin Rouge
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Moulin Rouge is a cabaret in Paris on Boulevard de Clichy at Place Blanche, in the 18th arrondissement near Montmartre. It is best known as the birthplace of the modern can-can dance and remains a tourist attraction offering musical dance entertainment. The club's decor retains much of the romance of Belle Époque France.
Don't miss
- The landmark red windmill on the roof, which collapsed in April 2024 and was restored by July 2024.
- The can-can dance, which originated here and remains a staple of performances.
- The Belle Époque decor, largely designed by Henri Mahé and still intact today.
- The giant aquarium installed in 1962, used for aquatic ballets.
- The tradition of revue titles beginning with the letter F, such as 'Formidable' and 'Féerie'.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Moulin Rouge
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inExperience Paris' Village of Montmartre away from the crowds4.9★ · 70 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$17 per personSee dates →
Most bookedLouvre Museum Masterpieces Guided Tour with Access4.5★ · 12,946 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$74 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleParis Private Guided Tour in a Vintage Car with Driver4.5★ · 236 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$359 per personSee dates →Getting there
Know before you go
- Located at the intersection of Boulevard de Clichy and Rue Blanche, in the Pigalle district of the 18th arrondissement.
- The venue is southwest of Montmartre and near the Place Blanche.
A bit of history
Co-founded by Charles Zidler and Joseph Oller in 1889, the original venue was destroyed by fire in 1915 and reopened in 1925 after rebuilding. Early success came from a revolutionary auditorium design, champagne evenings, and the can-can. Notable dancers included la Goulue and Jane Avril. The venue hosted the Prince of Wales in 1890 and was a favorite of artist Toulouse-Lautrec. After World War I, Mistinguett and Maurice Chevalier performed there. Since 1999, the revue has been titled 'Féerie'.
Common questions
What is the Moulin Rouge best known for?
It is best known as the birthplace of the modern can-can dance.
When did the Moulin Rouge open?
It opened on 6 October 1889 as the Jardin de Paris.
Was the original building destroyed?
Yes, the original venue was destroyed by fire in 1915 and reopened in 1925.
Who performed at the Moulin Rouge in its early years?
Prominent dancers included la Goulue, Jane Avril, and the clown Cha-U-Kao, and artists like Toulouse-Lautrec created posters for the venue.
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