The Hamburg State Opera, Hamburg

The Hamburg State Opera has a rich history that spans over three centuries since its founding on January 2, 1678, as the Opern-Theatrum. Located initially on the corner of Gänsemarkt and Jungfernstieg, it was initially a simple long wooden building that rapidly became the center of German-speaking civil theatre. Pioneering composers like Georg Philipp Telemann and Georg Friedrich Händel were among those who contributed to its early success, with Händel premiering his first opera "Almira" here in 1705.

After closing in 1738 due to financial issues, the original building saw various uses, including performances by touring comedy troupes, until its demolition in 1763. Subsequently, a new theatre was constructed on the same site, eventually renamed the German National Theatre under the influence of dramatic advisor Gotthold Ephraim Lessing. This venue showcased the works of prominent writers such as Schiller, Goethe, and Shakespeare.

The opera house underwent several relocations and reconstructions, the most significant of which occurred in 1827 when a new building with advanced acoustics and a capacity for 2,800 guests was established at its current location. This venue played host to influential figures such as Richard Wagner and Giuseppe Verdi in the mid-19th century. The late 19th century saw Bernhard Pollini stabilize the opera's finances through public funding, and the early 20th century was marked by the contributions of Gustav Mahler and the dominance of Richard Strauss and Wagner in the repertoire.

In the early 2000s, the opera house underwent further renovations to modernize its facilities, which now include three rehearsal stages, practice rooms for orchestras, choirs, ballet ensembles, and various administrative spaces.

Today, the Hamburg State Opera stands as a cultural beacon under the leadership of Frances Delnon and Kent Nagano, hosting the Hamburg Ballet led by John Neumeyer and the Philharmonic State Orchestra Hamburg. It remains a vital part of Hamburg’s cultural landscape, continuing its centuries-old tradition of musical and theatrical excellence.