Vienna State Opera

The court opera in Vienna was formed in the middle of the XVII century. Its troupe did not have their own place and had to perform in various theatres. Construction of the Vienna State Opera lasted from 1861 to 1869. At the first night there was the premiere of Mozart's opera "Don Juan".

Architects of the Vienna State Opera were Eduard van der Null and August von Sicardsburg. They built the theatre in Renaissance style, decorated the facade with the sculptures of ancient muses and with the scenes from Mozart's opera "The magic flute". However a new building at first was not appreciated by Vienna citizens, including the kaiser. They compared it to the railway station building. Unable to bear the mockery both architects soon passed away.

Nowadays classic works of prominent European composers are staged in the Vienna State Opera. And in February a real ball is organised there. Tickets for the performances are not cheap but with some efforts one may get standing room tickets. Tourists can have excursions in gorgeous rooms of the building.