Burgtheater

The Burgtheater

The Vienna audio-guided tour leads you before the majestic Burgtheater. Its monumental style immediately announces a leading theatre: it is the largest German-language theatre and one of the most important stages in Europe.

An imperial theatre

After the Comedie-Francaise in Paris, the Burgtheater is one of the oldest theatres in Europe. Inaugurated in 1888, it replaced the former court theatre founded in 1741 under the reign of Maria Theresa of Austria, mother of Marie Antoinette. The architects combined Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque elements for a striking result. At the end of the Second World War, a bomb devastated the main building, sparing only the wings around the grand staircase.

What there is to see

After the war, a ten-year restoration was so successful that at the reopening, the old could no longer be told from the new. A guided tour allows you to discover the interior, the imposing grand staircase and the painted ceilings. The theatre pursues a rich programme and remains a major cultural institution of the Austrian capital.

Practical information

The Burgtheater is on the Ring, facing the town hall. The facade can be seen freely; the guided tour of the interior and the performances are ticketed, with hours and prices varying by programme. It is best to check the programme in advance to plan a visit or an evening.

How old is the Burgtheater ?

The present building was inaugurated in 1888; it succeeded the court theatre founded in 1741 under Maria Theresa.

Can the interior be visited ?

Yes, a paid guided tour allows you to admire the grand staircase and the painted ceilings, with varying hours.