Moulin Rouge cabaret opens in Paris

Background. The Moulin Rouge is situated in the Pigalle district of Paris, on Boulevard de Clichy at Place Blanche, southwest of Montmartre. Its defining architectural feature is a landmark red windmill on the roof. The venue is recognized as the birthplace of the modern form of the can-can dance, establishing its cultural identity in Parisian nightlife.

Founders. Joseph Oller, a Catalan entrepreneur who lived in Paris, and Charles Zidler, a French impresario, co-founded the cabaret. Oller, who also owned the Paris Olympia, and Zidler were described as formidable businessmen who understood public tastes. During 1889 they co-inaugurated the Moulin Rouge, which opened on 6 October 1889 as the Jardin de Paris, an outdoor garden café-concert at the foot of the Montmartre hill.

Opening. On 6 October 1889, the venue opened as the Jardin de Paris, an outdoor garden café-concert located at the foot of the Montmartre hill. The cabaret swiftly garnered significant acclaim, earning the nickname "The First Palace of Women" from its founders. This initial success established the Moulin Rouge as a prominent fixture in Parisian entertainment.