The Opéra-Comédie is perhaps one of the most famous landmarks in Montpellier. This large Italian-style theatre has two perpendicular halls – one devoted to plays and the other to concerts. But is it cursed? No fewer than three fires have ravaged the building. In 1785, it was partially destroyed in a blaze, only to be restored in 1788 and once again engulfed by flames a year later. The building was then reduced to ashes yet again in 1881. Were the machinists careless when they applied oil to the pulleys? Maybe it was because the interiors were lit with candles? Or because the stage was filled with flammable scenery? We’ll probably never know. Hopefully, if there was a curse, it’s now worn off. Since 1888, the building has managed to stay intact and flame-free.
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