The Hungarian State Opera House is one of the most beautiful buildings in Budapest, attracting thousands of visitors annually. However, its facade is currently obscured by scaffolding, rendering this iconic landmark almost unrecognizable.
The Neo-Renaissance building has been closed for 18 months to undergo extensive restoration and modernization works. Newly released photos reveal the full scope of this $30 million project.
The images showcase extensive reconstruction on the roof with newly added tiles and a comprehensive overhaul of the auditorium equipped with a “smart” concept. Additionally, a new stage area has been constructed, accounting for $20 million of the renovation budget, featuring advanced overhead machinery and upgraded lifting systems.
The restoration also includes repairing the theater's windows and door frames, installing a modern HVAC system, and improving acoustics. The auditorium will feature high-tech “smart seats” with built-in headphones and tablets, enabling multilingual access to performances and detailed information about the historic building.
This elaborate monumental cupola fresco, painted by Károly Lotz, is one of the many features being restored. Courtesy Attila Nagy
Once completed, the Hungarian State Opera House will be on par with Europe’s leading opera institutions. Until the renovation is finished in late 2021, performances will temporarily take place at Erkel Theater, Hungary's largest auditorium.
