Vienna State Opera, which until 1918 was called the Vienna Court Opera, the most famous opera house in Austria.

Work on the construction of the Opera House began in 1861 and lasted eight years - until 1869. The building was created by the architects August Sicard von Sikardsburga and Eduard van der Nülle neo-Renaissance. Residents of the city, however, the building was subjected to strong criticism and ridicule, why Eduard van der Nülle committed suicide. In order to open May 25, 1869 was chosen by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart opera "Don Giovanni" at the presentation of which was attended by Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth.

At the end of World War II, March 12, 1945, the opera was severely damaged in the bombing of the Austrian capital. The auditorium, stage, virtually the entire decor and 150 thousand costumes were destroyed by fire. Not only suffered the lobby with frescoes, a grand staircase, a tea room and a lobby. Extensive discussions were held about whether opera to be restored in its original form in the same place, or should it be completely demolished and rebuilt, or on the same site or on another. In the end, it was decided to restore the opera at the same place. Restored opera opened their doors 5 November 1955, the season opened Beethoven's opera "Fidelio". Now the repertoire of Vienna Opera more than 200 performances.

One of the highlights of the annual events is the Opera Ball, held in the building of the Vienna State Opera in mid-February. Like other balls, the Opera Ball opens dance debutants - 180 pairs of young people who dance the waltz well. Required dress code Ball: ladies in ball gowns, men in evening dress with white bow tie (black butterflies are only waiters).

Vienna balls are considered to be the hallmark of Austria, every year attracts a large number of tourists, cultural figures and media from around the world.