The Moulin Rouge is one of Paris’s most legendary cabarets, located in the Pigalle district at the foot of Montmartre. It was founded in 1889 by Joseph Oller and Charles Zidler and quickly gained fame for its extravagant performances, risqué entertainment, and the invention of the modern can-can dance. The building is easily recognized by its bright red windmill on the roof, a nod to the area's past and a symbol of Parisian nightlife. In its early years, the Moulin Rouge was a meeting place for artists, writers, and bohemians, including Toulouse-Lautrec, whose posters helped immortalize its performers. The cabaret has endured through changing eras, hosting everything from operettas to elaborate dance revues, and it continues to draw visitors from around the world. Today, the Moulin Rouge remains a major tourist attraction, offering nightly shows filled with feathers, sequins, and choreography. It embodies the spirit of Belle Époque Paris and the city’s long-standing tradition of vibrant, provocative entertainment.
Paris FranceThe Moulin Rouge is located in the lively Pigalle district in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, at 82 Boulevard de Clichy. It sits at the base of Montmartre, a historic and artistic neighborhood known for its bohemian charm and stunning views over Paris. Just uphill from the cabaret is the Place du Tertre, where street artists sell their work, and the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, which offers panoramic vistas from its steps. The area around the Moulin Rouge is known for its nightlife, with numerous bars, theaters, and music venues. Nearby, you’ll also find the Musée de la Vie Romantique, a charming museum housed in a 19th-century villa that explores the lives of Romantic-era artists and writers. The Moulin Rouge is easily accessible via the Blanche metro station, which is right outside the entrance. Though Pigalle was once considered a red-light district, it has evolved into a mix of edgy and trendy, attracting both tourists and locals with its unique energy and cultural landmarks.