Gothenburg Opera House (Goteborgsoperan)

With its dramatic perch on the Gota River waterfront and a façade inspired by its maritime surroundings, the Gothenburg Opera House (Goteborgsoperan) is undoubtedly one of Gothenburg’s most impressive buildings. Inaugurated in 1994, the grand venue is the creation of architect Jan Izikowitz, and its ship-like silhouette and 26-foot tall Bård Breivik sculpture add a modernist edge to the industrial landscape of Gothenburg Harbour.
A large part of the opera house’s popularity is due to its varied roster of entertainment and the 1,300-seat stage plays host to an array of operas, musicals, classical concerts and ballets throughout the year.  Behind-the-scenes tours are also available, offering visitors the chance to peek into the dressing rooms, watch the expert wigmakers, stage designers and costume tailors at work, and browse the extensive library, said to contain over 15 tons of sheet music.

Practical Info

Gothenburg Opera House is located on the waterfront of Gothenburg Harbour, looking out over the Lilla Bommen marina and can be reached on foot from the city center. Along with its regular performance schedule, the Opera House also has a selection of bars and restaurants open to visitors and guided tours can be booked in advance (around 150SEK for a 90-minute tour).