The question “when was the opera house built” usually refers to the Sydney Opera House, one of the world’s most famous landmarks. Construction started in 1959 and the building was officially opened on 20 October 1973.

Quick Scoop: Key Dates

  • Design selected : Danish architect Jørn Utzon won the international design competition in 1957.
  • Site works and demolition of the old Fort Macquarie tram depot began in 1958, with major construction starting in 1959.
  • Structural work on the iconic shell roof continued through the 1960s, with internal fit‑out running into the early 1970s.
  • Official opening: The Sydney Opera House was inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II on 20 October 1973.

If You Meant Another Opera House

There are many famous opera houses, each with its own construction period, for example:

  • Palais Garnier (Paris Opera): built 1861–1875.
  • Royal Opera House (London): current building dates mainly from the mid‑19th century with later reconstructions.

If you had a different opera house in mind (Paris, London, Vienna, etc.), say which city or building name you mean, and the exact construction years can be given.