Athens Opera - Greece Index

The Athens Opera is the only lyric theatre of Greece. The establishment of the Greek National Opera was based on the Greek Opera House and is considered as part of its continuation.

At first it was established by Napoleon Lambelet, Dionyssios Lavrangas and by a group of inspired musicians. During the year 1888, the first Greek Opera was presented.

Since the year 1944 the Athens Opera operates as an autonomous organisation. Many famous names of the lyric singers participated in performances presented by the Greek National Opera, who later on became famous abroad. Certainly the most important of them all is Maria Callas , who signed the first professional contract with the Greek National Opera on June 20, 1940.