Gran Teatre del Liceu (Great Lyceum Theatre), Barcelona

Barcelona's opera house has long been hailed as one of Europe's most magnificent, rivaling the renowned La Scala in Milan. Originally established in 1848, it underwent a remarkable reconstruction following a devastating fire in 1861, transforming it into Spain's grandest theater. Symbolizing the aspirations of Barcelona's commercial and intellectual elite during the late 19th century, the opera house faced further tragedy in 1893 when an anarchist threw two bombs into the stalls during a performance of "William Tell", claiming the lives of twenty people. It experienced yet another destructive blaze in 1994 when a workman's blowtorch inadvertently ignited the scenery, leaving Barcelona's beloved soprano, Montserrat Caballé, in tears as the venue succumbed to flames. Following an extensive five-year restoration, the lavishly adorned interior was unveiled in 1999, accompanied by a contemporary addition known as the Espai Liceu, which encompasses a music and gift shop, as well as a café.

Even if you do not attend an opera performance, you can embark on a tour of the opera house. Choose between a guided tour, lasting an hour and commencing at 10am, or a self-guided tour, which is shorter and more affordable. The fire of 1994 spared some of the Liceu's most spectacular halls and rooms, including the dazzling Room of Mirrors ("Saló dels Miralls"), and the breathtaking gilded auditorium boasting nearly 2,300 seats. Certain tours also offer the opportunity to explore the magnificent modernista-styled chambers of the Cercle del Liceu, the opera house's exclusive members' club.

Tip:
For performances, consult the website for detailed information and book well in advance, but avoid buying any seats in the first three blocks at each side of the stage (instead, you should buy seats in the central three blocks or in the stalls). Later on, as a traditional meeting place for both the audience and performers, the renowned Café de l'òpera, located just across the Ramblas, invites you to immerse yourself in its historic charm.