From 1852, this former peaceful district of Paris was completely transformed by the work of Baron Haussmann, who constructed wide roads in order to encourage better traffic flow. Some ten years later, the construction of a new opera house was entrusted to the young architect Charles Garnier. Very quickly, the Opéra district became overrun with cafés, theaters, and luxury stores and finally became the heart of Parisian commercial activity. After 8 p.m., the avenues light up as Parisians and tourists alike flock to the restaurants, theaters, movies, and of course, the Opéra Garnier.