State Opera

Interesting facts

1. 1

   Originally constructed to serve the German-speaking minority of Prague, it functioned independently from the Czech National Theatre for much of its early history.

2. 2

   Famous conductors including Gustav Mahler and Richard Strauss have led performances at this podium.

3. 3

   The building was designed by the Viennese architectural firm Fellner & Helmer, who were responsible for dozens of theaters across the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

4. 4

   During the 2017–2020 renovation, restorers recovered original wall paintings that had been covered up by layers of paint during the communist era.

5. 5

   The theater's original 1888 opening gala performance featured Wagner's 'Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg'.

6. 6

   The chandelier in the main auditorium weighs approximately 1,600 kilograms and contains over 2,000 glass elements.

Overview

The State Opera in Prague is a Neo-Rococo theater opened in 1888 as the New German Theatre. It functions as one of the constituent houses of the National Theatre in Prague. The building is renowned for its elaborate gold and velvet interior, featuring a ceiling painted by Eduard Veith and a grand chandelier. The stage is one of the largest in Europe, capable of hosting complex operatic and ballet productions. The venue underwent a major historical reconstruction completed in 2020 to restore its 19th-century aesthetic while upgrading modern stage technology. It primarily hosts a rotating repertoire of international opera and ballet classics. The auditorium holds approximately 1,000 spectators across multiple tiers. It stands as a significant monument of Central European theatrical architecture.

Insider tips

• Check the digital signage in the lobby to identify the language of the surtitles for your performance.

• Arrive early to explore the public foyers, which contain some of the best-preserved Neo-Rococo decor in the city.

• Cloakrooms are mandatory for large bags and coats; utilize them to ensure comfort in the compact seating areas.