Experts' Choice Award Teatro Massimo
What the experts agree on
Italy's largest neoclassical theater, Teatro Massimo dominates Palermo's opera and ballet scene since 1897. Its grand architecture—designed by the Basile family—makes it an iconic cultural landmark and cinematic backdrop.
“Construction of this formidable Neoclassical theater, the largest in Italy, was started in 1875 by Giovanni Battista Basile.”
– Fodor's
Travel + Leisure "The neo-classical Teatro Massimo has loomed large in the opera, ballet, and classical music scene since opening in 1897." Full review
Michelin Guide 2 Stars
"The statue of Giuseppe Verdi watches over one of the greatest temples dedicated to lyric music. It was built by Giovanni Batista Basile and his son in around 1875." Full review
Afar Magazine "There is a reason why the Teatro Massimo was the final scene for The Godfather III." Full review
New York Times "The grand ocher sandstone facade of Teatro Massimo, flanked by palms, will be familiar to cinephiles: The final scenes of "The Godfather Part III" played out on the theater's steps. But..."
36 Hours in Palermo, Sicily
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National Geographic "For a memorable show, choose between Teatro Massimo—Italy’s largest opera house—and one of the puppet theaters, where swashbuckling marionettes continue a 200-year-old tradition"
Condé Nast Traveler
