Vienna State Opera The heart of Vienna’s musical life
A majestic opera house on Vienna’s Ring, it stands as a living testament to the city’s rich musical history. Since its opening in 1869, it has captivated generations of opera lovers with unforgettable performances and attracted the world’s greatest artists.
The Vienna State Opera, Vienna’s “first house on the Ring,” was commissioned by Emperor Franz Joseph I and opened in 1869 with Mozart’s Don Giovanni. It is one of the world’s most renowned opera houses and has hosted numerous world premieres of famous works, including Strauss’ Rosenkavalier and Wagner’s Parsifal.
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Sunken Chest and Broken Hearts – The Construction of the Vienna State Opera
The construction of the Vienna State Opera, funded by the City Expansion Fund of 1858, was a key element in the redesign of Vienna’s Ringstraße. However, miscalculations by the Imperial Building Authority led to the roadway of the Ringstraße being built one meter higher than originally planned after construction on the opera had already begun, significantly affecting the building’s appearance.
The architects Eduard van der Nüll and August Sicardsburg were publicly ridiculed for this mistake, even though they were not responsible. Van der Nüll subsequently took his own life, and his friend Sicardsburg died of a heart attack just two months later.
Emperor Franz Joseph I., deeply affected by these tragic events, vowed never to make critical remarks about art again. Instead, he adopted diplomatic phrases like “It was very beautiful, I was very pleased” to avoid hurting anyone.
The roadway level in front of the State Opera was later corrected, but the tragic story of its construction remains a dark chapter in the history of the famous opera house and a reminder of the challenges involved in executing major urban development projects.
Artistic fountains and façade as a testament to history
The fountain
The Music Fountain in front of the Vienna State Opera is a monumental work by German sculptor Ernst Julius Hähnel. Known for his impressive sculptures, Hähnel created the fountain in 1869 for the opera’s grand opening. The central figure represents an allegory of music, surrounded by figures symbolizing joy, dance, and lightheartedness. This fountain is a remarkable example of 19th-century art and a popular meeting point for visitors to the State Opera.
The façade
The Vienna State Opera is a masterpiece in itself. Five bronze figures represent heroism, tragedy, fantasy, comedy, and love. Two equestrian statues symbolize harmony and poetry. Additionally, two fountains, created by Josef Gasser, depict contrasting worlds: joy and sorrow, love and revenge.
A total work of art combining architecture, painting, and music
The interior of the Vienna State Opera is a true feast for the eyes. Upon entering the foyer, visitors are greeted by elaborate high-reliefs and ceiling paintings, symbolizing opera, ballet, and the seven liberal arts.
The magnificent auditorium accommodates over 2,200 visitors, while the orchestra pit provides space for up to 110 musicians. A special highlight is the “Iron Curtain”, which originally featured a motif from Gluck’s Orpheus and Eurydice. Since 1998, it has displayed seasonally changing designs without damaging the original artwork.
A masterpiece of music, people, and history
The Vienna State Opera is a masterpiece brought to life through the collaboration of many talents and personalities. Its directors, including renowned figures such as Gustav Mahler, have shaped the artistic vision of the house throughout history, leading it to international acclaim. A cornerstone of the State Opera is its outstanding orchestra, which also serves as the musical foundation of the world-famous Vienna Philharmonic.
These musicians captivate audiences not only with their nightly opera performances but also in concerts worldwide, including the famous New Year’s Concert. The orchestra’s ability to master both opera repertoire and concert performances at the highest level is truly unique in the music world. Beyond the artists on stage, countless dedicated staff members behind the scenes contribute to the success of the Vienna State Opera. They ensure that every performance runs smoothly, providing the audience with an unforgettable experience.
The Vienna State Opera Program – A Cultural Heritage
The Vienna State Opera’s program is far more than just a series of performances; it reflects the musical and cultural evolution of Vienna. Since its opening, the opera house has staged numerous significant works and world premieres, including famous operas by Strauss and Wagner. This diverse program continues to attract music lovers from around the world, making the State Opera a living symbol of classical music.