Teatro Solís is Montevideo’s historic performing arts theater, beside Plaza Independencia at the edge of Ciudad Vieja. Opened in 1856, the neoclassical building has an ornate interior and a performance space used for opera, ballet, theater and concerts. A guided tour lets you see the theater without booking a show; free tours are available on Wednesdays, with tours usually in Spanish and occasional English-language options. Take time to look at the exterior, too, then ask whether the lobby or art exhibits are open to visitors.
A theater opened in 1856
Teatro Solís opened on 25 August 1856, with Verdi’s opera Ernani performed on opening night. Italian architect Carlo Zucchi prepared an early design, which Francisco Xavier Garmendia used as the basis for the completed building. The theater stands beside Plaza Independencia, at the meeting point of Ciudad Vieja and the city’s newer center.
The building has served as a venue for opera, ballet, plays and concerts. It is also associated with important cultural events in Uruguay. After a refurbishment, it reopened in 2004.
Architecture and the performance space
The theater’s neoclassical exterior gives you plenty to examine before you go inside. Its interior has ornamental decoration, and guided visits can take you into the actual performance space, so you can see the theater even if you do not have a ticket for a show. The venue is known for its acoustics.
The building includes an elliptical hall and four levels for spectators. Visitor access to areas such as the lobby, upstairs rooms and art exhibits can depend on what is open during your visit, so ask at the theater.
Tours and performances
Guided tours explain the theater’s history and design. Free tours are available on Wednesdays. Tours are usually in Spanish, with English-language tours offered occasionally, so check what is scheduled before you go.
If you would rather see a performance, Teatro Solís stages opera, ballet, theater and concerts. Tickets are recommended in advance. The theater also hosts occasional evening events, including concerts and special presentations.
FAQ
Are tours of Teatro Solís free?
Free tours are available on Wednesdays.
Are tours available in English?
Tours are usually in Spanish, with English-language tours available occasionally. Check which language is scheduled for your visit.
Can you visit Teatro Solís without seeing a performance?
Yes. Guided tours let you see the performance space. You can also ask whether the lobby or art exhibits are open to visitors.
When did Teatro Solís open?
It opened on 25 August 1856. The theater reopened after refurbishment in 2004.
