Welcome to the audio guide for the Teatro di San Carlo, one of the oldest and most prestigious opera houses in the world. Located in the heart of Naples, next to Piazza del Plebiscito, the Teatro di San Carlo is an architectural and cultural gem that has captivated generations of spectators with its beauty and history.

The Teatro di San Carlo was inaugurated on November 4, 1737, by order of Charles of Bourbon, King of Naples. Designed by architect Giovanni Antonio Medrano, the theater was built in just eight months, becoming the largest opera house in the world at the time, with a capacity of over 3,000 spectators. Its opening preceded that of La Scala in Milan and La Fenice in Venice, establishing Naples as one of the main cultural centers of Europe.

We begin our visit at the main facade of the theater, which faces Via San Carlo. The facade, designed in neoclassical style, features a portico with six Corinthian columns supporting a triangular pediment. The sculptural decorations depict mythological and allegorical scenes, celebrating the arts and music. Above the portico, a series of arched windows adds elegance and brightness to the structure.

Now, let's enter the theater's foyer, a majestic and refined space. Here, we can admire the splendid gilded stuccoes, precious marbles, and crystal chandeliers that decorate the space. The foyer is a meeting and waiting place where spectators can socialize before the start of performances. From here, you can access the various levels of the theater, each offering a unique view of the auditorium.

Continuing, we enter the main auditorium, a true masterpiece of architecture and design. The auditorium is horseshoe-shaped, with five tiers of boxes and an upper gallery. The arrangement of the boxes allows all spectators to have a perfect view of the stage, creating an intimate and engaging atmosphere. Each box is decorated with gilded stuccoes, mirrors, and red velvet, contributing to an environment of luxury and opulence.

One of the most extraordinary elements of the auditorium is the frescoed ceiling, the work of Giuseppe Cammarano. The fresco, titled "Apollo Presents the Greatest Poets to Minerva," depicts a mythological scene in which the god Apollo introduces the greatest poets of antiquity to the goddess Minerva. The vibrant colors and dynamic figures of the fresco add a touch of magic and wonder to the auditorium.

The stage of the Teatro di San Carlo is one of the largest and best-equipped in Europe. With a depth of 35 meters and a width of 33 meters, the stage can accommodate imposing sets and elaborate productions. The theater boasts state-of-the-art technology for lighting and acoustics, ensuring exceptional sound quality for all performances.

The history of the Teatro di San Carlo is rich with events and illustrious personalities. Over the centuries, the theater has hosted some of the greatest operas and composers in history, including Gioachino Rossini, Gaetano Donizetti, and Vincenzo Bellini. Many famous operas had their premieres here, solidifying San Carlo as one of the most important opera houses in the world.

One of the most dramatic episodes in the theater's history was the fire of 1816, which destroyed much of the original structure. However, the theater was rebuilt in less than a year under the direction of architect Antonio Niccolini, who made some modifications and improvements to the original design. The reconstruction of San Carlo was an extraordinary feat, demonstrating the determination and passion of the Neapolitans for their culture and heritage.

The Teatro di San Carlo is not just a performance venue, but also a center for the training and promotion of the arts. The Ballet School of the Teatro di San Carlo, founded in 1812, is one of the oldest and most prestigious dance schools in the world and has trained generations of talented dancers. Additionally, the theater hosts workshops, seminars, and conferences, promoting the education and dissemination of musical and theatrical culture.

We conclude our visit with a stroll in the theater's garden, an oasis of tranquility and beauty in the heart of the city. The garden, with its flower beds and statues, offers an ideal place to relax and reflect on the magnificence of the Teatro di San Carlo. From here, we can also admire the rear facade of the theater, with its elegant decorations and architectural details.

Thank you for participating in this audio guide, and we hope your visit to the Teatro di San Carlo has been enriching and enjoyable. If you have any questions or would like more information, please do not hesitate to ask the theater staff. Enjoy your visit and goodbye!