Gran Teatre del Liceu: a Symbol of Culture in Barcelona

Talking about the Gran Teatre del Liceu means talking about culture, opera, and grandeur. Opened in 1847, it is the oldest theater in the city. However, it continues to shine just as brightly as the first day. Neither fires nor the conflicts that besieged the city during the convulsive nineteenth century could dull its splendor. Discover the secrets of this building, located close by la Rambla. During your stay at our boutique hotel Barcelona centre, you’ll have the chance to visit this and other jewels of the city.

Almost two centuries of tumultuous history

Less than two decades after the Gran Teatre del Liceu was opened, inspired by Italian theaters, there was an enormous fire. Both the auditorium (which had a capacity of 4,000 people) and the stage were burned. The repairs, completed in record time, caused the fire to be just a scare. However, a few years before the beginning of the twentieth century, a new shock cast its shadow over the theater. In this case, it was an attack that took the lives of 21 people. During the 20th century, the theater enjoyed a golden age until the 90’s, when there was another fire. The architects were inspired by the famous Teatro all Scala in Milan as they rebuilt the auditorium.

Gran Teatre del Liceu - Blog Casa Vaganto

Currently, it has a seating capacity of 2,929 people. There is a main lobby in an eclectic style with access to la Rambla, From there, an impressive marble staircase leads to the hall of mirrors. The main auditorium is all red velvet, a detail that gives an usual touch of elegance to the interior.

With an area of 36,000 square meters, it is one of the largest opera theaters in Europe.

Visit the Gran Teatre del Liceu

It’s worth your time to go see a performance at the Gran Teatre del Liceu. If you’re not able to do that, don’t worry, you can still visit. There are three options for a guided visit:

  • Teatro y Círculo del Liceu. The visit starts in the lobby and takes you through the various rooms. It costs 19 euros and last 60 minutes.
  • Backstage. In addition to the main rooms, this visit includes a trip through the dressing rooms and rehearsal areas. This tour costs 25 euros and lasts 90 minutes.
  • Milla Musical. A trip through Barcelona’s musical history. It starts at the Gran Teatre del Liceu and includes a visit to the Palau Música Catalana. This tour costs 25 euros and lasts 150 minutes.

Enjoy your stay at Hotel Casa Vaganto in Barcelona!

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