The Vienna state Opera, which until 1918 was called the Vienna court Opera, is the most famous Opera house, Austria.

Work on construction of the Opera house began in 1861 and lasted 8 years, until 1869. The building was designed by architects August Sicard von Stansburg and Eduard van der Nulla in neo-Renaissance style. City residents, however, building subjected to strong criticism and ridicule, why Eduard van der Null committed suicide. For the opening 25 may 1869 was chosen Opera of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's "don Giovanni", a performance which was attended by Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elizabeth.

At the end of the Second world war, 12 March 1945, the Opera was badly damaged in the bombing of the Austrian capital. Auditorium, stage, almost all the decor and 150 thousand costumes were destroyed by fire. Did not suffer the lobby, decorated with frescoes, a Grand staircase, tea room and lobby. A lengthy discussion was held on whether the Opera is to be restored in its original form at the same place, or should it be completely demolished and rebuilt, either on the same site or on another. In the end, it was decided to restore the Opera in the same place. Restored Opera house opened its doors November 5, 1955, the season opened with Beethoven's Opera "Fidelio". Now in the repertoire of the Vienna Opera more than 200 performances.

One of the most exciting annual events is the Opera ball, held in the building of the Vienna state Opera in the middle of February. Like the other balls, the Opera ball opens with the dance of the debutantes – 180 pairs of young people who can dance the waltz. Mandatory dress code of the ball: ladies in ball gowns, men in tuxedos with white bow tie (black bow ties are only waiters).

Viennese balls are rightly considered to be the hallmark of Austria, every year attracts a large number of tourists, cultural figures and media from around the world.