July 5 – August 4
Olavinlinna Castle, Savonlinna, Finland
The Savonlinna Opera Festival, taking place from July 5 to August 4 in Finland, is considered one of the most beautiful in the world, with the Olavinlinna Castle on Lake Saimaa providing a stunning backdrop. Savonlinna is a historic town located in Finland's lake district. Every summer, it transforms as 70,000 people attend the world-renowned music festival featuring operas by Mozart, Verdi, and Wagner.
History and Traditions
The festival's history dates back to 1912 when an opera was first performed on the stage of the medieval Olavinlinna Castle. Since then, this event has evolved into a true cultural tradition and become one of the most prestigious summer events in Northern Europe, attracting thousands of opera enthusiasts.
Program and Highlights
Mika Nevalainen, the festival's commercial director, notes: "Savonlinna is at its most picturesque during the festival in its summer splendor. Visitors will be delighted by the Scandinavian landscapes, medieval atmosphere, and performances by world-renowned opera stars." Each year, the festival features some of the best opera productions. In 2024, Verdi's "Nabucco" will make its Savonlinna debut in a production by Rodula Gaitanou, along with performances by stars like Karita Mattila (Ortrud in Wagner's "Lohengrin") and Mozart's "Don Giovanni." In addition to the classics, there will also be contemporary works such as Saariaho's "Adriana Mater."
Venue
The festival takes place in the picturesque town of Savonlinna on the shores of Lake Saimaa. The main venue is the 15th-century medieval Olavinlinna Castle, surrounded by the waters of the lake and creating a stunning atmosphere.
How to Get There
Savonlinna is an hour's flight or a four-hour train ride from Helsinki. You can reach it by car, train, or plane with a connection at nearby airports.
Practical Recommendations
To fully enjoy the festival, it is recommended to book tickets and accommodation well in advance. Savonlinna offers hotels and guesthouses to suit all tastes. It's also worth exploring the local cuisine, visiting the town's surroundings, and bringing warm clothing as evening performances at the castle can be chilly. More detailed information and tickets can be found on the website operafestival.fi/en/.
The Savonlinna Opera Festival is a truly unique event, combining a rich cultural heritage, high art, and an unforgettable atmosphere of a medieval castle amidst Finland's picturesque lakes.