Paris Opera Landmark Gets a Cleanup

The facade of the Palais Garnier, familiarly known as the Paris Opera, was returned to its 19th century splendor last week after more than a year of work to remove grime accumulated since 1867, when Charles Garnier’s landmark made its debut. Air pollution and acid rain had taken a toll on the chiseled limestone, rooftop sculpture and mosaics and marble floors of the elegant balcony. The building is home to ballet and dance; most opera performances are at the Opera-Bastille in eastern Paris.