Despite the rather modest facade of the theater building, Liceu is rightfully considered one of the best opera stages not only in Spain, but in the entire world! So many world stars have performed here: Placido Domingo, Montserrat Caballe, Jose Carreras, Alfredo Kraus, Fyodor Chaliapin, Maxim Mikhailov... However, the history of Liceu has not always been as brilliant as its fame.
Originally, the building of this theater was built with the money of patrons back in 1847. It was erected on the site of a collapsed monastery, and it is believed that this is exactly what repeatedly turned out most sadly for the theater.
In 1893, all of Spain was shaken by the terrorist attack that occurred at Liceu. Right during the performance, 20 people were killed by the explosion of a bomb planted by an unknown person. The hall was, of course, repaired, but for a long time no one wanted to occupy those 20 seats...
In addition, over a century and a half the theater building burned many times and was rebuilt again, but the most terrible fire, which burned everything to the ground, happened not so long ago - in 1994. In the literal sense, only a charred skeleton remained of Liceu. This event caused a worldwide stir and, fortunately, funds for the restoration of the theater were collected quite quickly.
To appreciate all the grandeur of this establishment, be sure to take a look inside - on a theater tour, or better yet, at an opera. Only then will you be able to see the luxurious painted ceilings of Liceu, magnificent crystal chandeliers, marble staircases, snow-white columns decorated with golden patterns, and cozy boxes with crimson velvet armchairs...
