Located in Venice, Teatro la Fenice, also known as “The Phoenix” is one of the main protagonists of Italian Theatre and Opera history, becoming the place where many composers, such as Rossini, Donizetti, Verdi and Bellini chose to premiere their work. It’s nowadays one of the most suggestive sites in Venice and a popular tourist attraction.
Let’s find out something more about Teatro La Fenice in Venice and why you should visit it during your Venice Tour!
The birth of Teatro La Fenice
Teatro la Fenice was founded in 1792 and, as previously mentioned, it became one of the most beloved spots by bel canto composers in the XIX century, some of which were: Vincenzo Bellini, Giuseppe Verdi, Gioachino Rossini and Gaetano Donizetti.
The reason this theater was built dates back to when the most important theater in Venice was Teatro San Benedetto, owned by the Grimani family and later on given to the Nobile Società di Palchettisti, who chose after a ruling to give it to the Venier Family since they owned the land it was built on. At that time, the need to construct a bigger and more important theater was felt and, because of this, they hosted a competition to design what would become Teatro La Fenice.
The competition was won by architect Giannantonio Selva and construction began in 1791. The Phoenix quickly became the most prestigious opera theater in Europe but, unfortunately, on a December 1836 night, a fire burned it down, destroying fundamental parts of it. The theater was rebuilt and reopened to the public in record time and, after this first fire, it was chosen that the theater would become public. When the theater was closed for restoration works in 1996, a second fire occurred, leading the building to be completely burnt down to ashes. The theater was reconstructed in 2003, thanks to architect Aldo Rossi, who directed and supervised the work.
The symbolic name: Teatro La Fenice
As previously mentioned, Teatro La Fenice (The Phoenix) gets its name after some fires that burned it down three times, once in 1774, another in 1836 and the last one in 1996, which resulted in the theater being left with its exterior walls only. The symbol of the Phoenix represents the possibility to rise from the ashes and pays homage to the theaters lost.
How to experience Teatro La Fenice: Plan your visit
If you’re thinking of visiting the Phoenix, here’s some useful information. The theater is open every day from 09:30 AM to 06:00 PM but, before going, make sure you check the opening hours again since they may vary according to certain holidays or events. You can visit the building on your own but, in order to fully understand the beauty and history of this theater, we highly suggest you book a guided tour. It only lasts 1 hour and it’s quite affordable.
Conclusion
Visiting Teatro La Fenice is one of your best chances to get lost in the beauty of this majestic building and learn more about the history of Italian theater. If you want to get the best experience ever, book a private tour with us!
