Sydney Attractions

Venue: Sydney Opera House    When: Daily

The sail-like shapes of the Sydney Opera House are the city's most famous landmark. Built on a fantastic vantage point at the edge of Sydney Harbour close to the bustling Circular Quay, the complex commands stunning views of the Harbour Bridge and includes restaurants and shops as well as five performance venues.

The Opera House, home to Opera Australia when in New South Wales, seats 1547, while the biggest capacity is that of the Concert Hall, home of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, seating 2690. The Drama Theatre, mainly used by the Sydney Theatre Company, seats 544, while the Playhouse (also hosting productions by the Bell Shakespeare Company) seats 398. Finally, the Studio seats 318.

The site of the building has a history dating back to the first days of colonisation. It received its name, Bennelong Point, after the name of an aborigine befriended by Governor Arthur Phillip, who ordered a residence to be built there. Subsequently, it became the site of Fort Macquarie, then wharves and a tram shed, which were demolished in 1958 in readiness for the proposed Sydney Opera House.

Conductor Sir Eugene Goosens proposed the idea of a concert hall and opera house in 1947. With support from Premier of New South Wales J J Cahill, a committee was set up and competition held, eventually won by Danish architect Jørn Utzon. Despite the fact that the original idea was changed after Utzon's design had been accepted, the sails of the revolutionary building were slowly built during the mid-1960s, with the interiors following in readiness for the official opening by the Queen on 20 October 1973.

Probably the most recognisable arts venue in the world, the Sydney Opera House's design, aspect and beauty have made it a major attraction in its own right, the backdrop for the spectacular New Year's fireworks and Australia Day celebrations.