Amazon’s Opera House

— When we visited Manaus (Amazonas) in 2014, I made sure our hotel would be within walking distance to this majestic opera house. In fact, the view from our balcony can be seen in another entry here. On our second day in Manaus, we did a tour of the theatre. We visited backstage and different areas in all floors of the building. Our wonder was beyond our expectations when we walked in and saw the theatre in all its glory. If the interior of the theatre looks familiar to you, it is likely because you’ve seen Werner Herzog’s movie “Fitzcarraldo.” The theatre began its construction in 1884, and Italian architect Celestial Sacardim supervised the work. The first performance took place on January 7, 1897, with no one other than the famous Enrico Caruso. The theatre presently holds 701 seats.