2 Via Filodrammatici, Milan 20121

Famous the world over among opera aficionados, La Scala Milan is Italy's premier opera house. Its inauguration dates back to 1778 after the previous theatre burned down. The new building was constructed on the site of the church of Santa Maria della Scala which gave the opera house its name. It soon became the place to be for Milanese nobility. Even today, performances at La Scala are events of great pomp with the ushers wearing white gloves and big La Scala medallions.

Many famous operas had their premiers at La Scala such as the Falstaff of Verdi who had a special relationship with the opera house as did Rossini and Puccini. The opera house also features a Museum (Museo Teatrale alla Scala) which houses an extraordinary collection of documents, paintings, drafts, statues, costumes concerning La Scala's history. La Scala is also home of the Accademia d’Arti e Mestieri dello Spettacolo (Academy for the Performing Arts) which trains young musicians, technical staff, and dancers.

The season in La Scala traditionally starts on 7th December the day of Saint Ambrose who is the patron saint of Milan. Tickets can be hard to get and should be booked well in advance.