Latin American culture is one of the most diverse and unique in the world, and the history of its theaters and opera houses is certainly proof of that diversity. If you’re a lover of culture and arts, then these five brilliant theaters in Latin America are a must-see during your travels (and not to worry if you don’t speak the language — check out Bob Thomas’s post about How to Enjoy Theater in Latin America (Even if You Don’t Speak Spanish or Portuguese).
Teatro Amazonas (Amazon Theater)
Opened: 1899
Located in: Manaus, Brazil
Why You Need to Visit: Also known as the Manaus Opera House, this historic Renaissance style building is a symbol of the turmoil and history of the Amazon rainforest region in Brazil. The interior has 198 chandeliers, and 36,000 ceramic tiles decorate the mosaic of the domed roof. Today, it hosts the yearly Amazonas Opera Festival and is the home of the Amazonas Philharmonic.
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Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts)
Opened: 1934
Located in: Mexico City, Mexico
Why You Need to Visit: The most important cultural center in Mexico City, this theater came to fruition during Mexico‘s boom period of arts and music in the early 1900s. The original building was scrapped for something more opulent — the current Palace — and construction lasted almost 30 years due to complications. The rife history and stunning Neoclassical architecture is just one of the many reasons to visit, as are the performances of award-winning dance and music.
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DON’T MISS: Mexican History, Mexican Art: 4 Great Museums in Mexico City
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Teatro de Cristobal Colón (Christopher Columbus Theater)
Opened: 1892
Located in: Bogota, Colombia
Why You Need to Visit: The nation’s national theater, the Teatro de Cristobal Colón was built to celebrate the fourth centenary of the European discovery of America and it opened with a performance of Verdi’s Ernani. The interior of this Neoclassical building has lovely frescoes and a grand, opulent feel. The venue hosts live dance, music and theatrical performances by groups from Colombia and beyond.
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DON’T MISS: Touring the 5 Coolest Churches in Latin America: Holy Modern Architecture!
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Gran Teatro de la Habana (Great Theater of Havana)
Opened: 1838, reopened in 1915
Located in: Havana, Cuba
Why You Need to Visit: The oldest theater in Latin America, this stunning building is the architectural pride of Cuba. Over the course of the years and through many name changes it has seen the likes of famous composers, pianists, violinists, and musical groups. It is now home to the National Cuban Ballet and the International Ballet Festivals of Havana.
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DON’T MISS: How to Travel to Cuba, Legally — These Cuba Tours Let You Go Right Now!
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Teatro Colón (Columbus Theater)
Opened: 1908
Located in: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Why You Need to Visit: A grand venue known for hosting world-class operas and ballets, the Teatro Colón in Argentina is ranked by National Geographic as one of the three best opera houses in the entire world. The theater is a dream for any performer or audience member, as acoustically it is one of the best theaters in the world. It is a stunning building to view, and the interior represents a luxurious, organic composure of Argentine history.