Teatro Amazonas is Manaus’s grand opera house, built during the rubber boom and opened in 1896. Its pink neoclassical exterior and brightly tiled dome stand out in Largo de São Sebastião, in the city center. Inside, imported European materials and ornate details tell the story of a period when rubber wealth brought high ambitions to Manaus. Take a guided tour in English or Portuguese to see the interior, or check the program for opera and Amazonas Philharmonic Orchestra performances.
A theater built during the rubber boom
Teatro Amazonas was built when rubber exports brought great wealth to Manaus. The city needed a venue for European touring companies, and work on the theater began in 1884. Financial problems delayed completion; Governor Eduardo Ribeiro inaugurated the building in 1896.
The theater’s scale and imported finishes reflect the ambitions of the period. Construction used materials brought from Europe, including glass from France and marble from Italy. The project took 15 years to complete, according to one account, and its design drew on European architectural styles.
The dome and imported details
The colorful dome is one of the building’s most recognizable features. Its ceramic tiles were imported from France and arranged in colors resembling the Brazilian flag. The exterior’s neoclassical character contrasts with the more ornate decoration inside.
Look for the European craftsmanship throughout the building. The theater’s glass, chandeliers, doors and staircases came from abroad, with materials and fittings associated with France, Italy and England. Inside, the lobby, auditorium and upper ballroom are decorated with chandeliers, including Murano glass examples. Paintings by Capranesi and De Angelis are also part of the interior.
Tours and performances
A guided tour gives visitors access to the theater’s interior and explains its place in Manaus’s history. Tours are available in English and Portuguese; check the schedule before setting out. An hour-long visit is enough for a guided look around, based on published descriptions of the tour.
Teatro Amazonas remains a working performance venue and is home to the Amazonas Philharmonic Orchestra. Its program includes opera, concerts and orchestra performances. The opera festival is held in April and May, though dates and events depend on the program. Check the theater’s official website for current tour and performance information before planning around a specific event.
FAQ
Where is Teatro Amazonas?
It is in Largo de São Sebastião, in central Manaus, Brazil.
Can you tour Teatro Amazonas in English?
Yes. Guided tours are available in English and Portuguese. Check tour times in advance.
How long does a visit take?
A guided tour takes about an hour.
When is the opera festival?
The opera festival is held in April and May. Check the theater’s program for current event details.
