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The origin of the Vienna Opera goes back to the beginning of the 18th century. It is the oldest theatrical institution with an unbroken record of performing in the German-speaking world,. A number of new operas were performed in Vienna during the 47-year-long reign of Emperor Leopold I, who was a composer as well a ruler.
With a handwritten letter to the Minister of the Interior dated 20 December 1857, the 27-year-old Emperor Franz Josef confirmed his already discussed decision to expand the city of Vienna and for the construction of public buildings. Many participants in the international contest announced on 30 January 1858 for the expansion of the inner city of Vienna planned the new opera house to be near the Kärntnertore, thus close by the theatre it was to replace, which indicates a strong tradition of opera-awareness.
It was especially tragic that criticism of the building, which started in the autumn of 1868, only came to an end after the untimely deaths of the two architects. The style was criticized. In 1861 the opera house had been started in a romantic concept, which however, at the latest in 1865 had been replaced by the monumental conceptions of the strict style of historicism.
Following the destructions of the opera house on 12 March 1945 due to the effects of war, a completely different opinion emerged during the lengthy discussions on the reconstruction. There was no doubt that the facade should be restored, whereas a faithful restoration of the interior gave rise to differences. The reopening of the opera house was celebrated on 5 November 1955.
Vienna Opera House is situated in the first district of Vienna at the southern end of the Kärntnerstrasse. August von Sicardsburg and Eduard van der Nüll built the State Opera House from 1861 to 1869.
The Vienna Opera House has a world-wide standing for its first-class opera performances and is also known because of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. A night at the State Opera is one of the most impressive events any visitor to Vienna can experience.
The building itself closely resembles Italian Renaissance, as this epoch was immensely important for art and music. The first operas were written and performed in Italy during the 16th century. The loggia towards Ring Boulevard aims to emphasize the house’s openness to the public. It is adorned with a precious cycle representing the Mozart’s ‘Magic Flute’ and other famous operas accomplished by painter Moritz von Schwind. Numerous statues and figurative embellishments at the inside and outside of Vienna opera underline the festive character of the house.
The Vienna State Opera is one of the first opera addresses in the world – offering great diversity at the highest level. The program of this renowned opera house changes daily and presents 50 opera and 15 ballets on 300 days of the year.
Once a year, the stage and orchestra stalls of the Vienna State Opera turn into a giant dance floor – for the Vienna Opera Ball. More than a hundred debutante couples in long evening dress and tailcoats open the ball in the presence of the Austrian Federal President; once more, one can feel the ambiance of the Vienna of the great Ring Boulevard era.
Anil Gupta recommends that you visit www.bookings.be/city/at/vienna.html?aid=305255 for more information on Vienna hotels. |
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