Vienna State Opera House

On the next day of our Vienna holiday, we took a guided tour to visit the famous State Opera House, or Wien Staatsoper in German . Looking at the exteriors, it just looks like another opulent stately building in a European city.


Vienna State Opera as its name suggests, is an opera house with history dating back to the 19th century. The construction of this Neo-Renaissance style monument was a controvesial subject then and upon its completion, it was not popular with the public. The architect of the building was so sad of the critique and even commited suicide. Nevertheless, the opening premiere was the Don Giovanni opera by Mozart.


The opera house was partly damaged during the World War II but has since been beautifully reconstructed to its original design. The craftsmanship and masters of the yesterdays never fail to amaze me.


We started off our tour walking up the celebratory main stairwell built in marble. This is the grand entrance to various parts of the main auditorium and is adorned with a number of notable statues and paintings.


With view straight across the main stage, the Middle Box seats were formerly reserved for the Court. Today it's accessible to the public. Being the first tour of the day, we got the chance to visit the backstage as well. Some workers were busy setting up the stage for the opera show later that night. The backstage is huge and I guess it could easily fit in 2 to 3 tennis courts.


The main auditorium and the balcony levels are designed in horseshoe shape in traditional red-gold-ivory colours to provide the best view possible to most of the seats. And you won't miss the large chandelier made from crystal hung high above the main auditorium. I advise you not to choose a seat beneath this monster as it weighs 3 tonnes! I never thought of attending an opera show but being inside this magnificent auditorium has changed my mind. I'll want to see an opera and feel the atmosphere in such a magnificent hall whenever I have a chance next time! ;)


Tea Salon is a richly decorated room located behind the Middle Box reserved for private use. The ceiling and walls are adorned with 22 carat gold leaf. We were only allowed to 'peep' from the door eventhough I'd told them I won't steal the gold. :(


Okay. Forget about the Tea Salon, this hall, Gustav Mahler Hall is dedicated for the rest of the spectators during opera reception and intervals. Gustav Mahler was apparently one of the most accomplished conductors and directors in Viennese history.


Foyer and Loggia, this is more of an art gallery instead of its intended use as reception area. This room is dedicated to the great Viennese composers, conductors and directors. Their statues and paintings are prominently displayed all over the room.


Even the vaulted hallways are so delicate.


The State Opera House is indeed an architectural masterpiece. I wish I had the chance to spend more time inside but unfortunately the only way to visit it was by a 40min guided tour.