The Opera: a major cultural pole
The Alte Oper of Frankfurt, or “Former Frankfurt Opera House” in English is not only one of the most iconic monuments of the city but also one of the most prestigious concert halls of Germany.
This architectural gem welcomes over 475.000 visitors a year to classical music and entertainment events (around 450 a year).
The Alte Oper includes the most prestigious conductors, soloists and orchestras of classical music as its guests, but also in other musical genres such as pop, jazz, chanson and world music.
Various events Such as thematic festivals around the following themes: dance, performance, literature and acting are organized in collaboration with other Frankfurt cultural institutions.
The Opera also welcomes conferences, meetings, receptions, balls and gala evenings.
For more details about the events, you may refer to the official website (https://www.alteoper.de/en/). An English version is available.
A bit of history…
The building was designed by the Berlin architect Richard Lucae and its construction was funded by the citizens of Frankfurt. The emperor William I. was present during the inauguration on October 20th, 1880.
During Second World War, Frankfurt was severely damaged by numerous bombs and the Alte Oper has almost been destroyed.
The ruins of the Opera in 1958.
In the 60’s, the construction of a modern office building has been planned at the very same location of the ruins by the magistrate of the city. The Alte Oper has finally been rebuilt in 1981 after a citizen’s initiative was launched to raise funds.
At the present time, the Opera is composed of:
- The Grosser Saal Hall « Big Hall », which can welcome 2 500 spectators.
- The Mozart-Saal, with 700 seats.
- Other smaller rooms, mainly used for conventions
