Sydney Opera House during the Vivid Sydney festival* (1) (2011) by Kazuhisa TogoSydney Opera House
The pearly white sails of the Sydney Opera House are among the world's most iconic structures. Overlooking the vast Sydney Harbor, the concert hall is a national and global symbol of human creativity and celebration.
Scroll on to discover its history in 5 steps...
Front cover, the Red Book (1958) by Jørn UtzonSydney Opera House
1957: The Birth of an Icon
Danish architect Jørn Utzon's unmistakable design is selected for Sydney's new concert venue, intended to replace the small Sydney Town Hall. Work on the structure begins the next year, but soon runs into problems.
Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip arrive at the Sydney Opera House (1973) by Leo Davis CollectionSydney Opera House
1973: The Grand Opening
After 14 long years of trials and tribulations, the Sydney Opera House is officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. She said of the design, "The human spirit must sometimes take wings or sails, and create something that is not just utilitarian or commonplace.”
Nelson Mandela addresses a huge crowd from the Monumental Steps (1990) by Craig Golding/Fairfax SyndicationSydney Opera House
1990: Nelson Mandela
Released from prison only months earlier, Nelson Mandela addressed a crowd of 40,000 people gathered in front of the Sydney Opera House, before attending a choral performance of Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrica (God Bless Africa).
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2000: Sydney Olympics
At the 2000 Summer Olympics, held in Sydney, the Opera House formed both part of the logo and the backdrop to many of the events. The final stretch of the torch relay began on the roof of the Opera House, and the very first Olympic triathlon was held around the building.
Spencer Tunick at the Opera House (2010-03-01) by Spencer TunickSydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras
2010: Baring it All
On 1 March 2010, as part of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, American photographer Spencer Tunick gathered 5200 people to pose nude in front of the Sydney Opera House.
Utzon tapestry, 'Homage to C.P.E Bach' (2004) by Sam DoustSydney Opera House
2016: The Utzon Room
In 2016, a tapestry originally commissioned for the Opera House by Utzon in 1959 and made by Le Corbusier, was finally unveiled to the public in the Utzon Room, named in honour of the building's main architect.
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Discover the Utzon Room on Street View, and while you're here, why not take a look at the rest of the Sydney Opera House.
