Süreyya Opera House
A beautiful 1927 opera house in Kadıköy, originally Istanbul's first musical theatre on the Anatolian side. It was restored and reopened as a proper opera venue in 2007.
This historic building on Bahariye's main avenue was commissioned by deputy Süreyya İlmen and designed by architect Kegham Kavafyan. Opened in 1927, it was intended as a musical theatre but spent decades as a cinema due to lacking proper stage facilities.
After a major restoration, it finally began hosting operas in 2007 as the Süreyya Opera House. Its elegant facade is a landmark in the neighborhood, representing a long-delayed cultural ambition for Kadıköy.
“See a piece of local cultural history that waited 80 years to fulfill its original purpose.”
Check the Kültür Sanat schedule online; they sometimes offer free noon concerts or open rehearsals you can watch.
Main entrance and ground floor are accessible. The auditorium has stairs; contact the venue ahead for specific seating access.
Good to know
- Is Süreyya Opera House free to visit?
- Free. Exterior free; performance tickets vary
- How long should you spend at Süreyya Opera House?
- ~1h
- When is the best time to visit Süreyya Opera House?
- Afternoon
- Is Süreyya Opera House wheelchair accessible?
- Main entrance and ground floor are accessible. The auditorium has stairs; contact the venue ahead for specific seating access.
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