Step outside from the glittering gold leaf-infused Grand Foyer, and you are mercifully transported to a subdued solid stone environment. The Grand Foyer is undoubtedly remarkable but can overwhelm the senses. The not-too-shabby stone environment is a loggia, an external area enclosed within the confines of the structure. It differs from a balcony, which sticks out of a building.

Of course, in keeping with the monumental and ornate opera house, the loggia at the front of the building is no slouch. The carved stone and marble flooring is attractive, and the view out to the streetscape is stunning.

I noticed the sun peeking behind the column and decided to make it a visual feature. I shrank the aperture to f14, which produced a dramatic sunburst.

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