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Cuvilliés Theatre

About

The Cuvilliés Theatre, nestled within Munich’s Residenz palace, is one of Europe’s most exquisite Rococo theatres. Designed by François Cuvilliés the Elder and completed in 1753, it was originally built as an exclusive court opera house for Elector Maximilian III Joseph. The theatre’s lavish interior—adorned in royal red and gold, with intricate wood carvings and tiered boxes—embodies the opulence of 18th-century design. Mozart’s opera Idomeneo premiered here in 1781, and in 1806, Napoleon attended a performance of Don Giovanni during Bavaria’s elevation to kingdom status. Though the original structure was destroyed in World War II, its ornate fittings were preserved and meticulously reassembled in the Apothekenstock wing of the Residenz. Reopened in 1958, the Cuvilliés Theatre remains a cultural gem, hosting concerts and events that celebrate its rich artistic legacy. It offers visitors a rare glimpse into the grandeur of Bavarian court life and the enduring beauty of Rococo architecture.

Munich Germany

Location

The Cuvilliés Theatre is located at Residenzstraße 1 within the Munich Residenz, in the heart of Munich's Altstadt-Lehel district. This exquisite rococo opera house, named after its architect François Cuvilliés the Elder, is famed for its opulent white, red, and gold interiors and intricate wood carvings, making it a jewel of Bavarian rococo artistry. Originally built between 1751 and 1755, it hosted premieres of Mozart operas and was a favored venue of royalty. Though destroyed during World War II, its interiors were preserved and meticulously reconstructed inside the Residenz. Visitors to the theatre can also explore the surrounding Munich Residenz palace complex, the National Theatre nearby at Max-Joseph-Platz, and the tranquil Hofgarten park, all easily accessible in Munich's historic center.

Cuvilliés Theatre

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