Sydney Opera House

Sandip HorSandip Hor/Guest Contributor/SIGHTSEEING, SYDNEY/ Updated : Jul 9, 2016, 16:55 IST

Sydney Opera House

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Synopsis

Sydney Opera House during the lighting festival

Some say it’s the sexiest building on earth, many claim its setting against the backdrop of a blue sea is awe-inspiring, but all agree to mark it as one of the fascinating human endeavours of the 20th century. Truly, Sydney’s Opera House is an architectural wonder, dominating the Circular Quay precinct. Always ranked at the top of any Sydney itinerary, this World Heritage listed urban sculpture in patterned tiles, which was designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, glisten during the day and invitingly shine as the sun comes down. Its distinctive roofing comprises sets of interlocking vaulted ‘shells’ set upon a vast terraced platform. Since its opening in 1973, it has become a major performing arts venue, staging over 2,400 events a year. There are several performance arenas inside and outside, ranging in capacity from 200 to 6000. Unquestionably watching a performance here is a life time experience. With its warmth and cathedral-like ambience, the Concert Hall is the most majestic, prestigious, and architecturally astute space inside the Opera House. It is the largest of the interior venues, with an audience capacity of up to 2679 people. Several internationally famous artists have performed there, including Indian legends such as Ravi Shankar and Lata Mangeshkar. There are daily guided tours to show visitors around, while many bars and restaurants offer gastronomical pleasures.