This stately Renaissance-style theatre sits with aplomb on the Ringstrasse. Designed by Gottfried Semper and Karl Hasenauer in 1888, it was restored to its pre-WWII glory in 1955. The company dates to 1741, making it Europe's second oldest. If walls could speak, these would tell of musical milestones like the premiere of Mozart's Marriage of Figaro (1786) and Beethoven's 1st Symphony (1800).
For a behind-the-scenes look at this magnificent theatre, join one of the regular guided tours , which zip through its history, architecture and technological wizardry. Besides taking in portraits of famous Austrian actors and busts of well-known playwrights, you'll get to appreciate the full-on effect of the foyer ceiling frescos painted by the Klimt brothers. English tours run Friday to Sunday only; otherwise they are in German with English summary.
