| Detail: The building was built at the end of 18th century by count
Frantisek Nostic-Rieneck. It was designed by the architect Antonin Haffenecker in
classical style. At first sight it reminds little bit of a Roman or Greek temple.
Definitely it is a temple of classical music and theatre, as it says the Latin inscription
”Patriae et Musis” on the main façade. The founder of the theatre was a great patriot and art lover; he wanted to
dedicate the theater to German drama and opera. Several important music composer and
musicians presented their work within the walls of this theatre. The most important one is
of course W.A. Mozart. Firstly his opera ”Figaro’ s Wedding” in January 1786 was
presented. It was a great success. During his stay in Prague W.A. Mozart conducted the
opera on 22. January 1786 and also presented his Prague Symphony on a public concert. The
great success of his work brought him the contract for ” Don Giovanni” performed on
29. October 1787. The world premiere of the opera took place in the Estates Theatre and
W.A. Mozart again conducted the orchestra himself.
Visitors can admire the richly decorated interiors
originally designed by Jan Jacob Quirin Jahn in the late rococo style. Even the theater
was several times remodeled and modernized for today purposes in its walls still lives the
atmosphere from Mozart’ s times. |
