FINEST OPERA HOUSES

The temples of classical music are unlike the venues of any other musical genre. These palatial works of elegance and opulence are worth a visit in their own right, and very much part of the enchantment of opera, philharmonic orchestras and grand musical events. Like the spectacles they host, the finest opera houses of the world transport us to a different era.

Lovers of culture, architecture and simply beautiful things as well as those who enjoy music have an experience waiting for them in the classic opera houses of the world, for these icons of art and elegance relive the enchantment of a bygone era. Enter through the red carpet and you step into a world of finery that was once the domain of royals, aristocrats and famous composers. It is an environment of creativity in every sense, from the architecture of the exquisitely decorated theatres to the music played within them; enjoy the decorative splendour of some of the finest works of art in the world – an experience to be savoured. Though the list of potential candidates is large, here is a collection of some of the very finest opera houses of all.

Vienna State Opera

Few cities can boast the intimate relationship with classical music that Vienna has, and not surprisingly the Austrian capital is home to one of the most important opera houses, the Wiener Staatsoper. Completed in 1869, it is the epicentre of classical music in a city that is the global capital of the genre, complete with a very comprehensive calendar of events. Annual highlights are the New Year Concert and the Vienna Opera Ball.

“The appeal of an opera house is manifold, for quite apart from the musical experience, the elegant ambience and the chance to dress up a little, it is a pleasure just to enter these gorgeous cultural palaces and sense the charm of bygone eras.”

Eva Marschall Marschall Real Estate Vienna, AUSTRIA

TEATRO ALLA SCALA, MILAN

Generally known as La Scala, the world’s most famous opera house was opened in 1778 as the Nuovo Regio Ducale Teatro alla Scala. Since then, it has become the unofficial temple of classical music, home to the local choir, ballet and two philharmonic orchestras, as well as a prestigious academy. Situated at the heart of Milan’s historic district, the theatre is the epicentre of a classical hub that also includes the famous Duomo cathedral and the Vittorio Emmanuele gallery.

PALAIS GARNIER, PARIS

Certainly one of the most beautiful as well as famous opera houses in the world, this spectacular edifice designed by Charles Garnier and situated on the Place de l’Opéra in the heart of the finest Paris quarter, hosted its inaugural performance in 1875. Designed in the Napoleon III style, it is a symbol of the elegance and refinement of the French capital, and apart from being a fine work of art in its own right, is home to a rich schedule of internationally acclaimed musical and cultural events.

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE, LONDON

The British home of classical music is situated in the lively Covent Garden district, an impressive neoclassical masterpiece first inaugurated in 1892. The current opera house is the latest edification of earlier theatres on the location, and houses some of the most important ballet, opera and orchestral performances held in the world, as well as one of the most prestigious schools. Its interior reflects the breath-taking splendour that makes opera houses so special.

METROPOLITAN OPERA HOUSE, NEW YORK

As befits an opera house from the New World, The Met is rather more modern than its European counterparts. Designed in the International Style and first opened in 1966, this cultural gem on Broadway nonetheless has an equally rich history of memorable performances by famous artists, and is every bit as prestigious as its older counterparts.

Sydney Opera House

While Australia is not immediately associated with classical music, its iconic Sydney harbour opera house with the sail-inspired design penned by Danish architect Jorn Utzon was inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II in 1973. Today it is recognised across the globe as a Sydney and Australian landmark – a fact that almost overshadows its cultural importance within the city, so while the interior décor is somewhat more contemporary than classic opera houses, it is nevertheless every bit as impressive.

These are perhaps the jewels in the crown of global opera houses, but there are others, including noble palaces of culture in Madrid, St Petersburg, Budapest and Stockholm, as well as the Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires, and the amazing Amazon Theatre in exotic Manaus, on the edge of the rainforest. From urban chic to the edge of untamed nature, the opera house is an oasis of refinement and classical beauty the world over – a haven of all things beautiful within a fast-moving, bustling world.

By MICHEL CRUZ

Photographic feature by Thomas Dressler