How Much Do You Know About The Opera House?

We’ve all heard of the famous and iconic Sydney Opera House, but how much do you actually know about this incredible building?

It may surprise you to learn that the Opera House was actually designed by a Danish architect. An international design competition was launched by the NSW Government in 1956 and Jørn Utzon’s was picked out of 233 entries submitted. He won $5000 (about $140,000 today) and was given the responsibility of creating what is now one of the most recognizable buildings in the world!

Originally, it was estimated that the construction of the Opera House would cost in the region of $7 million. The final bill came in at a huge $102 million – almost 15 times what was first predicted!

They also underestimated how long it would take to build! 10,000 construction workers were involved in the building of the Sydney Opera House and it was predicted to take 4 years. It was not until 1973, however, 14 years after construction began, that the project was completed!

The Sydney Opera House Grand Organ, found in the Concert Hall, took 10 years to build and its 10,154 pipes make it the largest mechanical organ in the world.

There’s so many more facts about the Opera House that would make you appreciate its brilliance even more than you probably already do! What’s your favourite fact?

Even better than talking about the Opera House? Sailing right by it on a catamaran with some of your favourite people. And that is exactly what Rockfish give you the chance to do. We have an option to suit everyone, from Corporate charters to Family charters and every event you can think of in between, a Harbour cruise is a great way to spend your morning/afternoon/evening.

Contact us today, let us know about your event and we’ll do what we can to make it memorable!