Commissioned by the Bourbon King Charles VII of Naples, the Teatro di san Carlo is the oldest opera house in Europe and it has certainly stood the test of time, still being considered one of the best in the world. On its inauguration on 4th November 1737 (the king's name day) it was the largest opera house in the world, holding over 3,000 people. The spectacular building has been admired over the centuries for its acoustic properties and sumptuous design.
The horseshoe-shaped theatre caught the attention of composers such as Gioacchino Rossini, Giuseppe Verdi and Vincenzo Bellini and thrived through the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, this historic theatre is still attracting world-class performers and hosts spectacular operas, ballets and concerts throughout the year.
If you don't fancy catching a show, you can still enjoy a guided tour of the theatre from approximately €6 per person.
