Chapiteau
A 'big top' tent or semi-permanent canvas structure used in Monaco to host the international circus festival, concerts, galas and major public events. The term refers especially to the Chapiteau de Fontvieille.
A chapiteau is a large tent or demountable canvas structure, traditionally associated with the circus. In Monaco the term refers above all to the Chapiteau de Fontvieille (Espace Fontvieille), a semi-permanent venue that has hosted the Festival International du Cirque de Monte-Carlo every January since 1974. The festival was founded by Prince Rainier III and is now chaired by Princess Stéphanie.
The Chapiteau de Fontvieille is also used year-round for concerts, trade fairs, charity galas, conferences and large public events. It sits in the Fontvieille district next to the harbour of the same name and is easily reached by bus or on foot from central Monte-Carlo.
For the headline event that takes place there each January, see Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival.