Sydney Opera House : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Welcome to the Sydney Opera House travel guide, a crash course in the stunning architecture, fun facts and interesting information about the iconic attraction. You’ll find yourself charmed by the unique and world-famous building, home to some of the most incredible performances, concerts and shows around the globe. Read on and let us captivate you with the fun facts about Sydney Opera House in Australia, and information about its history, architecture and practical travel tips.

Interesting Facts About Sydney Opera House

1. The Sydney Opera House cost more than 14 times its initial budget.

2. More than 4 million people visit it every year.

3. The most expensive seat is the one closest to the floor in the main auditorium, which cost $290.

4. It is the only one of the great 20th century buildings to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

5. The ‘shell’ of the Sydney Opera House consists of 1,056,006 glossy white tiles.

6. The openings in the Sydney Opera House’s ‘shell’ were designed to symbolize the unfurling sails of boats.

7. The sails themselves are composed of 5 different materials, including sheet iron and pre-cast concrete.

8. The design of the Opera House was the brainchild of Danish architect Jørn Utzon.

9. The interior theaters are lined with wood panels made of Tasmanian blackwood and oregon.

10. The Sydney Opera House has hosted a wide range of events, including operas, musicals, comedy shows, and orchestra performances.

• Sydney Olympic Park : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

History & Information About Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is an iconic performing arts venue located on the Bennelong Point in Sydney, New South Wales. Its construction began in 1959, after an international design competition. Designed by the Danish architect, Jorn Utzon, the building has become an architectural symbol for the city and is visited and recognized by millions of people around the world every year.

The Sydney Opera House is a great example of modern expressionist architecture and is made up of many geometric structures. It has a total floor area of 1.8 hectares and stands on 6.45 hectares of land. It is built on three levels, with the upper level consisting of the performance spaces, some restaurants, and reception areas. The middle level has the dress circle and the lounge area, while the lower level has the entrance foyers, the main box office, and other touring companies’ offices.

The first performance held at the venue was the Australia Opera Company’s production of War and Peace, on October 28th, 1973. In 1974, the Sydney Opera House was officially opened by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Since then, it has become an integral part of Australia’s cultural landscape, hosting countless performers of all genres.

Today, the venue is under the management of the Sydney Opera House Trust, an organization that works along with the support of both Federal and State governments to promote the venue and its programming. Professional productions take place there throughout the year, such as opera, ballet, theater, musicals, and performances from international and local artists. In addition, several festivals, educational activities, conferences, and functions are hosted each year.

The iconic venue has become one of Australia’s biggest tourist attractions and is an official UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 2020, the opera house celebrated its 50th anniversary in style.

• Most Beautiful Cities In Australia
• Parliament House : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Travel Guide For Visiting Sydney Opera House

Sydney Opera House is a world-famous, iconic venue in Sydney, New South Wales. This masterpiece of modern design was opened to the public in 1973 and since then, it has become one of the most recognizable structures in the world. This guide will talk about some of the best things to do when visiting this iconic landmark.

1. Take a tour – The Sydney Opera House offers a range of tours, depending on your interests. These tours will provide you with insight into the design of the building, its history, and the daily life of the performance venue. Try the “Behind the Scenes” tour package, which will give you a special look at the costume and prop rooms, the Orchestra pits, and the secret stories of stage legend.

2. Watch a Show – One of the best ways to experience the Opera House is through its performances. Catch a show at the Sydney Opera House and get blown away by its magnificent space and unbeatable acoustics. From ballet, opera, drama, and children’s shows, the Opera House has something for everyone.

3. Dine in Style – For a stunning and unforgettable meal, dine at Otto Restaurant inside the Opera House. Located outside the concert hall, with an amazing panoramic view overlooking the harbour, Otto will give you a taste of European and Mediterranean fusion. Finish the night with their signature dessert, Chocochino Alle Noci.

4. Meet the Locals – Sydney has a thriving, lively arts culture, and the best way to experience it is to meet the locals. Have a beer or two at the Rocks area, pick up some souvenirs at the markets, or attend one of the free events throughout the year.

5. Explore the Harbour – last but not least, take a scenic journey across the harbour by boat and get an up-close glimpse of the Sydney Opera House in its full glory. Boat hire and charters are available in plenty, so make sure to explore and have an adventure!

• State Library of Victoria : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Royal Exhibition Building : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Parliament House : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Frequently Asked Questions About Sydney Opera House

1. What are the opening hours for the Sydney Opera House?
The Sydney Opera House is open from 9am to 5pm daily, with the exception of Christmas Day, Good Friday and Anzac Day where it is closed.

2. Is there an entry fee to visit the Sydney Opera House?
No. There is no entry fee to visit the Sydney Opera House.

3. Is there a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House?
Yes. Guided tours are available from 9am–5pm daily and run for approximately 60 minutes.

4. Is there an age limit for attending performances at the Sydney Opera House?
Yes. Entry to all performances at the Sydney Opera House requires a ticket and is subject to an age limit of 5 years or over.

5. Who owns the Sydney Opera House?
The Sydney Opera House is owned and managed by the Sydney Opera House Trust, a government agency of the New South Wales State Government.

• Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Royal Perth Hospital : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Most Beautiful Cities In Australia