One of the emblematic buildings that you cannot miss in Milan is the La Scala Theater. This building is among the most important at the operatic level in the world. Come discover what is hidden inside and how you can visit it.
When a fire destroyed the old Ducale Theater in 1776, the owners of the boxes asked Archduke Ferdinand of Austria to build a new theater. This is how the neoclassical architect, Giuseppe Piermarini, designed what is now known as the La Scala Theater.
The original structure was restructured in 1907, changing to the design we know today. But in 1943, the bombings of the Second World War affected Milan and seriously damaged the theater, which would later be rebuilt.
In 2002 it closed its doors for a renovation and in 2004 it was reopened. Despite the fact that many did not agree with this restoration, because they feared that the identity of the building would be lost. Once finished, it was evident that it had not changed much in aesthetics.
Fundamentally, the back of the stage was enlarged to create a functional and modern dressing room area, carpets and paintings that concealed the original marble of the building were removed and decorations from the 18th century were recovered.
Before visiting La Scala, you may be interested in knowing some curious facts about this theater. At first, the enclosure also functioned as a casino, something very common in the 18th century. Until finally, its use for theater entertainment was only relegated.
On the other hand, it is known that throughout its 250 years, the theater had the presence of numerous artists. In fact, here we find the room where Giuseppe Verdi, a true genius of operatic theater, is believed to have learned to play.
However, Verdi avoided presenting his works at La Scala, because he believed that the orchestra modified his music too much.
Another artist who had a bad experience in the theater was María Callas. After his debut in 1950 with Aida, the reception of the public was so cold that he withdrew from the stage without finishing the performance.
Fortunately, in the second performance of that play it reaped its success, which gave it the name of La Divina.
The La Scala Theater has in its interior a large museum made up of a wide variety of collections of paintings, busts, costumes and elements related to the world of opera.
Entering through the lobby you can see a harmonious room despite its poor decoration. It is also possible to access the small boxes lined with red velvet, and see the works as members of high society did in the past.
The huge interior of the auditorium was made of wood covered with velvet, and decorated with stuccoes decorated in golden tones. If you look up, you will be able to contemplate the huge Bohemian crystal chandelier made up of 383 bulbs.
Finally, it should be noted that the museum programs temporary thematic exhibitions, linked to the world of opera. This offers the opportunity to contemplate from the costumes that were used, to the instruments that have sounded with scores by geniuses such as Mozart, Verdi or Puccini.
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