Our nearby town of Macerata, is famous for the opera and ballet and the highlight is the "Stagione Lirica" which takes place in the 7,000-seater Sferisterio a huge Neoclassical arena erected by a few wealthy gentlemen living in the area.

Construction began on 2 October 1820, based on a project by Salvatore Innocenzi, which was soon to be halted for three years as the citizens, who had funded the project could not come to an agreement on the designs. They finally chose the drawings by Ireneouu Aleandri, who was at the time a young and unknown architect from San Severino Marche.

The Sferisterio was eventually inaugurated on 5 Semptember 1829. This, then, was to be a new urban arena, which could accomodate festivals, tournaments, circuses, bull fights, equestrian events and also political meetings. Originally intended to house Italy’s national sport of handball, by around  1909 the game’s popularity began to decline due to the growing enthusiasm for football.

In 1914 The Sferisterio showcased its first operatic performance of Vincenzo Bellini’s NORMA and it was realised that there were great acoustics. Soon it became an open air opera "theatre" and, as a neo-classical monument, is now second only to Verona as Italy's best open air venue.

With prices from only  15 euro's high up on the top balcony, it really is a once in a lifetime experience!

Hints For Visiting The Opera:

Language: Operas are usually performed in their original language with Italian subtitles. It’s a good idea to get to understand the story before the opera starts!

Duration: Usually Operas, ballets and concerts can run anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours plus. Very often the first part is longer than the second.

Dress: Smart dress is required for Italian musical events. You may be turned away if you are dressed too casually. Opening night opera performances require a full dark suit for men, an elegant dress for ladies.

Our Photo Gallery of The Sferistereo