* Born: December 21, 1845, in Triana, Seville, Spain.
* Died: May 23, 1885, in Paris, France.
* Voice type: Mezzo-soprano.
* Most famous roles: Carmen in Bizet's opera of the same name, Donna Elvira in Mozart's Don Giovanni, Violetta in Verdi's La traviata.
* Career highlights: Made her operatic debut in Madrid in 1861. Sang with the world's leading opera companies, including the Paris Opéra, the Royal Opera House in London, and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Toured extensively throughout Europe and the Americas. Was known for her passionate and dramatic performances.
* Personal life: Had a difficult childhood and was married several times. Her first husband died of yellow fever, and her second husband was stabbed to death in a bar fight. Suffered from alcoholism and depression. Died of throat cancer at the age of 39.
* Legacy: Carmen is considered one of the greatest opera singers of all time. Her recordings have been released on CD and DVD, and she has been the subject of several books and films. Her life and career continue to inspire singers and opera lovers around the world.