Originally founded as the Theatre Royal, the grandiloquent Royal Opera House looks back on a long and exciting history. Established in the early 18th century under the design of Edward Shepherd, the venue initially acted as a playhouse but later premiered ballets and a Georg Friedrich Handel-heavy repertoire of operas.

In 1808 the location burnt to the ground, and completely rebuilt. Less than 50 years later fate hit again: another extensive fire in 1856 led to the final new construction that exists in roughly similar form today. With a complete architectural makeover in the late ‘90s, the Royal Opera House proves not only to be one of London’s prime cultural spots, but also a beautiful sight when walking around Covent Garden area.

Today, the house accommodates three companies, including the Royal Opera and the Royal Ballet, which were both awarded Royal charters post-WWII. Add on the Royal Opera Chorus and you are looking at one of the best-equipped opera stages in the world.