Krakow Opera House

The Krakow Opera is a theatrical institution that has been operating since 1954, rooted in the rich history of opera in Krakow, which dates back to 1628. Over the centuries, opera and operetta performances took place in various venues, such as the Juliusz Słowacki Theatre and the Soldier's House. In 2008, the modern Opera building at 48 Lubicz Street, designed by Romuald Loegler and his team, was opened. It gained recognition for its architectural merits, though it was not without controversy due to budget overruns and issues with fire safety installations. The building, with a seating capacity of 764 and equipped with a modern stage, significantly enriched the city's cultural offerings, attracting around 90,000 spectators annually. The history of the Krakow Opera includes important events, such as the first public opera performances in 1782, the activities of the Krakow Opera Society from 1915 to 1938, and the resumption of operations after World War II. Over the years, the opera has presented numerous performances both in Poland and abroad, in countries such as Belgium, France, and Italy. Interestingly, the new Opera building was a subject of controversy—in 2009, it was voted the worst new architectural structure in Krakow in the Archi-Szopa poll. Despite financial difficulties and technical challenges, the Krakow Opera remains an important part of the city's cultural life, continuing its artistic traditions and contributing to the development of opera art in the region.