The Estates Theatre stands on Železná Street in Prague’s Old Town, in a Neoclassical building that opened in 1783. Mozart conducted the world premiere of Don Giovanni here in 1787, and the theatre still stages opera, ballet and drama. Look for the classical details on its green façade and the statue of Il Commendatore outside, then see a performance or join a tour to learn about the theatre’s history. Book ahead if you want a particular seat.
An 18th-century theatre in Old Town
The Estates Theatre opened in 1783 and is part of Prague’s National Theatre family. Its main façade faces Rytířská Street and has a Neoclassical design, with details inspired by ancient Greek and Roman temples. The building has remained almost entirely in its original condition.
A statue of Il Commendatore outside connects the theatre to Don Giovanni, Mozart’s opera that premiered here in 1787. The Estates Theatre was also used in the 1984 film Amadeus for a scene depicting the opera’s first performance.
A stage for Czech opera and drama
The theatre’s history includes important Czech works as well as Mozart’s operas. The first modern Czech opera, The Tinker, premiered here in 1826. In 1834, the song “Where Is My Home” was first performed at the theatre; it later became the Czech national anthem.
Today, the programme includes opera, ballet and drama. Mozart’s Don Giovanni, The Marriage of Figaro and The Magic Flute have been staged in their original Italian, with Czech and English subtitles. Mozartissimo brings together excerpts from several Mozart operas and is performed several times a week in summer.
Tours and performances
A tour gives you a chance to learn about the theatre’s history, with guides explaining its place in Prague’s performance life. You can also check the programme for a show and book tickets ahead, particularly if you want to choose your seats.
The building has wheelchair-accessible seating, an entrance, restrooms and parking. It is also equipped for hearing-impaired visitors. For a clearer view during a performance, avoid the second rows of the side boxes.
FAQ
What is the Estates Theatre famous for?
Mozart conducted the world premiere of Don Giovanni here in 1787. The theatre also hosted the first performance of the Czech song “Where Is My Home” in 1834.
What performances can you see at the Estates Theatre?
The programme includes opera, ballet and drama. Mozartissimo, a selection of excerpts from Mozart’s operas, is performed several times a week in summer.
Can you take a tour of the Estates Theatre?
Yes. Tours introduce the theatre’s history and are led by guides.
Is the Estates Theatre wheelchair accessible?
The theatre has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, restrooms and parking.
