Since its creation in 1889 by Joseph Oller and Charles Zidler, the Moulin Rouge has established itself as a place of exalted celebration in Montmartre. In the run-up to theUniversal Exhibition, it captured the zeitgeist with a charming mix of bourgeois, artists, local residents and curious foreigners.
Thanks to its flamboyant revues, its red-winged windmill - today a symbol of the City of Light - and its innovative shows combining dance, music, humor and extravagance, it attracted a heterogeneous crowd eager for entertainment right from the start.
The cabaret's history quickly became that of a living symbol of Parisian creativity, where artistic ambition meets excess. Discover its history.
The Moulin Rouge immediately stands out for its unique architecture, with its giant red windmill overlooking the auditorium, a nod to the traditional windmills of the Butte Montmartre. In the bubbling atmosphere of the Belle Époque, the cabaret offers a permanent spectacle combining dance revues (including the famous French Cancan!), humorous acts, unusual attractions such as that of Joseph Pujol alias 'le Pétomane' and sumptuous decor.
This bold mix attracted Parisian elites, craftsmen and curious foreigners alike.
Among the most famous artists to have contributed to its legend is Louise Weber, known as La Goulue, one of its leading figures. She became theemblem of the Moulin Rouge, immortalized by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec in his posters and paintings.
Other dancers such as Jane Avril, Mistinguett and Yvette Guilbert also made their debuts here, contributing to the cabaret's aura. In addition to the dancers, the decor and ambience inspired numerous painters and poster artists, notably Toulouse-Lautrec, who captured nightlife with expressive precision.
In 1915, a devastating fire ravaged the Moulin Rouge. It was rebuilt in the 1920s under the aegis of French architect Adolphe Thiers, with modernized architecture while remaining faithful to theoriginal aesthetic. The cabaret continued to evolve over the decades, modernizing its sets, revues and costumes, while retaining its festive spirit.
Management passed through several hands, and Jacki Clerico, owner for 50 years, played a crucial role in keeping it at the top of the Parisian scene.
The Moulin Rouge remains one of the world's most famous music halls, enjoying an international reputation for over 130 years. Every night, it presents spectacular shows featuring dance, sumptuous costumes, acrobatics and grandiose choreography.
Born in the effervescence of the Belle Époque, this legendary cabaret has weathered wars, fashions and rebuilds without ever losing its flame. A veritable institution of Parisian entertainment, where history continues to dance.
The legendary addresses and historic sites of artistic and bohemian Montmartre
Perched high above Paris, Montmartre was the beating heart of artistic bohemia in the 19ᵉ and 20ᵉ centuries. Painters, poets and songwriters lived there freely between cabarets, studios and steep alleyways, leaving an eternal imprint on the soul of the capital. [Read more]
Location
Moulin Rouge
82 Boulevard de Clichy
75018 Paris 18
Official website
www.moulinrouge.fr
The legendary addresses and historic sites of artistic and bohemian Montmartre
