The Strange History of the Sydney Opera House
Alexander Webb – The Wandering Writer
The Sydney Opera House is a world famous icon. With its beautiful design, how could it be any way else? But while everyone knows about this majestic landmark, far fewer know the thrilling story of its creation—and how it was nearly never built at all. Journey with us to Australia’s most iconic landmark and uncover the history of the Sydney Opera House.
Sydney Opera House History
The design came from Danish architect Jørn Utzon who submitted it to a 1956 competition sponsored by the New South Wales government. His visionary proposal was initially rejected by three judges—seemingly dooming his hopes of winning. Yet this concept so captivated the fourth judge that it was chosen as the winner, beating 232 other entrants.
The reality of building the revolutionary, sail-like structure created multiple technological and cost problems. Final designs were completed late, and the project quickly fell behind schedule. The NSW government was afraid that delays would weaken public support, so they forced the project to go ahead before it was truly ready. This meant some early work had to be redone later in the process, ironically leading to more delays.
Building started on March 2, 1959, and problems multiplied. A key issue was creating the sloped, sail-like roof. Concepts for its creation were either too expensive, impossible with current technology, or both. The problem was finally solved when the team cast the roof as different sized sections of a sphere. In this way, the curved nature of the roof could be created in a uniform way.
Disaster struck in 1965 when Robert Askin—who had vocally opposed the project—was elected premier of NSW. Disputes over cost and control meant that Utzon and his staff were not paid—forcing Utzon’s resignation. Bitterness over this political interference meant that Utzon—who died in 2009—never visited the completed Opera House, even after it was declared a World Heritage site in 2007. While Utzon faced much criticism at the time, he was later respected as a visionary within the architectural community.
Famed Architect Frank Gehry noted, “Utzon made a building well ahead of its time, far ahead of available technology, and he persevered through extraordinarily malicious publicity and negative criticism to build a building that changed the image of an entire country.”
Find out about upcoming shows and events and learn more about the history of Sydney Opera House by visiting the website.
Sydney Opera House Facts
When was Sydney Opera House Built?
The Sydney Opera House began construction in 1959 and was completed in 1973.
How much did it cost to build the Sydney Opera House?
The final cost of the Sydney Opera House was $102 million, over $90 million more than the original estimate.
How long did it take to construct the Sydney Opera House?
Construction of the Sydney Opera took 14 years to complete.
Where is the Sydney Opera House?
The Sydney Opera House is located on Bennelong Point, beside Sydney’s Circular Quay.
How many people visit the Sydney Opera House each year?
Over 10 million people visit the Sydney Opera House each year.
Accommodation Near Sydney Opera House
Located a short 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive from Sydney Opera is Ovolo Woolloomooloo, a 5-star boutique hotel with a prime waterfront location. Sitting on Sydney’s historic finger wharf, Ovolo Woolloomooloo offers a unique stay with spacious rooms and designer loft suites that combine heritage and modern luxury, plus a range of deluxe facilities, including an indoor pool, restaurant, bar and 24-hour fitness centre. Wander from Woolloomooloo through the breathtaking Botanic Gardens and make your way to the city’s most famous landmark and other Sydney history attractions to learn more about the fascinating history of the Sydney Opera House.
Alex Webb is a traveller who has visited over 30 countries and lived in Hong Kong, Japan, China, South Korea, and the United States. He has written for National Geographic Books and co-authored a book published by the Financial Times Press. When he’s not travelling or writing, he enjoys playing guitar and writing songs. Follow him on instagram at @alxndrwb