Stavovské divadlo (Estates Theater)

Stavovské divadlo (Estates Theater) Review

Built in the 1780s in the classical style, this opulent, green palais was a beacon of Czech-language culture in a city long dominated by German. It's best known for hosting the world premiere of Mozart's opera Don Giovanni in October 1787, with the composer himself conducting. Prague audiences were quick to acknowledge Mozart's genius: The opera was an instant hit here, though it flopped nearly everywhere else in Europe. Mozart wrote some of the opera's second act in Prague at the Villa Bertramka, where he was a frequent guest. You must attend a performance to see inside. But the statue of Mozart's "Commendatore" character just outside the theater, a haunting sight, especially after dark, is free to gaze at.