La Fenice opened in 1792, at a time when Venice was the cultural capital of Europe. Its name - the Phoenix - was no accident. It was meant to symbolise the rebirth of Venetian opera after the previous theatre, the San Benedetto, burned down. No one knew then how prophetic the name would be.
The stage for world premieres
During the 19th century, La Fenice became the scene of premieres of works that are now known throughout the world. It was here that Giuseppe Verdi's operas such as Rigoletto, La Traviata and Simon Boccanegra were first performed. Rossini, Donizetti and Bellini also appeared here - names that shaped the Italian operatic tradition.
The theatre gained a reputation not only for its composers, but also for its acoustic wonder and its magnificent Italian Rococo style interior.
The fires that didn't break it
Ironically, La Fenice has been destroyed by fire twice - the first time in 1836, and the second time in 1996, when the fire was deliberately set by two electricians to avoid penalties for delays in reconstruction. But the tragedy that crippled the cultural world has turned into another chapter of rebirth.
Reconstruction under the motto com'era, dov'era ("as it was, where it was" - i.e., the building was restored to its original siteand in the same form as it was before it was destroyed) lasted until 2003, when the Phoenix returned to the scene. The faithfully restored interior, decorated with gold and frescoes, has captivated visitors from all over the world. The interior of the theatre is one of the most beautiful in Europe!
La Fenice today
Today, Teatro La Fenice is not only an opera house with a rich programme, but also a symbol of determination, elegance and musical genius. You can visit it during an opera or ballet performance, or even just during the day when tours are organised for the public. Inside, you will find yourself in another world - a world of velvet, gold and glorious history.
The main public entrance today is from Campo San Fantin, where the main foyer and ticket office are located. But the theatre also has a "water entrance" - or "porta d'acqua", the entrance from the canal. This entrance used to be used by distinguished guests to arrive in gondolas directly to the entrance (as in other historic palaces in Venice). Today, this entrance from the Rio Menuo de la Verona canal (a smaller waterway next to the theatre) is used more symbolically or for special purposes.
Tip: If you want to treat yourself to an unforgettable evening, book your tickets for tonight's performance in advance! Whether you are an opera lover or just a romantic in search of beauty, La Fenice will enchant you.
