The Royal Walloon Opera has been housed in the Royal Theater building in Liège since its inception in 1820. In 2009, the opera underwent a thorough renovation and modernization, which made it one of the most modern music theaters in the world. Currently, it has 1041 seats, and its decor has been restored to its original state.
The beginnings of the opera date back to 1816, when King William of Orange transferred the property of the former Dominican monastery to Liege authorities for the construction of the theater. Four years later a neoclassical edifice was created, designed by Auguste Dukers. In 1861, the architect Julien-Étienne Rémont rebuilt and expanded the theater.
The first permanent opera group was formed in 1967 as a non-profit association under the name Royal Opera of Wallonia. The opera currently employs over 300 people and its annual budget is EUR 13 million.