A trip to Budapest is not complete without a stop at the opera building , one of the favorite places of the famous empress of Austria and queen consort of Hungary, the famous Sissi.
Neo-Renaissance architecture… and impressive
Initially opened on September 27, 1884 by the famous Hungarian architect Miklos Ybl , this old and ornate mansion rivals the great opera houses of Paris and Vienna for its spectacularity and acoustics. Now, after six years of renovation, it reopens its doors in the elegant Andrássy avenue.
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The ambitious project has involved the modernization of the façade, the scenic and acoustic engineering system, the improvement of the comfort of the auditorium, the reconstruction of the orchestra pit, and the restoration of historical spaces, all of this without altering its cultural essence and the authentic and iconic character of its architecture.
More than 500 shows make up the new season of the Budapest Opera
Therefore, the capacity of the auditorium has decreased from 1,200 to 1,000 seats, with larger and more comfortable seats. In addition, the rows on the ground floor are now arranged in a block, in the shape of a horseshoe, so that the covering of the side walls of the boxes better reflects the sound waves, achieving, according to those responsible, one of the best acoustics in the world.
The reform has lasted six intense years
The central element of the interior renovation, however, is the aforementioned computerized engineering system , which allows both the pit and the seats to be adapted in height, in order to adapt the space to all kinds of shows and performances. It also has new rehearsal rooms, historic period furniture and a renovated Opera Cafe in which to have a drink whether you go to one of the shows or not.
Every detail of the building is a work of art
Although the ideal is that you see it in all its splendor! There is a choice: this season, there will be more than 500 theatrical shows represented in two locations, including 53 pieces of repertoire and 16 new productions.
You can also, yes, participate in any of the guided routes through this Hungarian bastion of art and culture, which houses various works of art, and on its facade, 16 iconic statues of famous musicians and composers, whose works have been part of the repertoire of the Opera.
Your new essential stop if you travel to Budapest