Social Theater, Como
Theatre in Como
The Social Theater of Como, known locally as Teatro Sociale, is one of the city's most treasured cultural landmarks. Created by Como's nobility in the early 19th century, the theatre was built to replace an older venue that could no longer meet the city's artistic ambitions. Rising on the site of the medieval Round Tower, it offers a beautiful blend of neoclassical architecture, rich musical heritage, and modern vitality, earning its place as one of the best places to visit in Como for lovers of history and the performing arts.
Over the centuries, the theatre has welcomed world-class performers, from Paganini to Liszt, and has evolved into a lively cultural hub that continues to shape Como's artistic identity. Today, the Teatro Sociale is often visited on walking tours of Como, standing proudly near the old city walls and hosting everything from opera to ballets to international music festivals.
History and Significance of Social Theater (Teatro Sociale)
The origins of the Social Theater date back to 1812, when Como's local aristocracy approved the construction of a new and more modern theatre. The old venue from 1765 no longer reflected the city's cultural aspirations, so architect Giuseppe Cusi was tasked with designing a new structure on the site of the ruined medieval Round Tower. Construction progressed rapidly, and by August 1813, the theatre was ready to open with Marco Portogallo's opera Adriano in Siria.
With its elegant neoclassical facade, the theatre became a symbol of Como's cultural refinement. Renovations in 1854 added 38 new boxes, bringing the total to 98, allowing the theatre to accommodate larger audiences. However, by the early 20th century, it again proved too small, prompting the construction of a new house in 1910. Despite these expansions and changes, the Teatro Sociale has retained its original charm and stature.
The theatre’s rich history includes unforgettable performances by world-renowned musicians. Nicolo Paganini performed here in 1823, dazzling audiences with his virtuosity, while Franz Liszt graced the stage in 1837 with works such as The Serenade and The Orgy. In the 20th century, the theatre’s Arena, an outdoor stage, became famous for large-scale productions before closing in the 1960s. It triumphantly reopened in 2013 with Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana, reestablishing the Arena as one of Como’s most vibrant cultural spaces.
Things to See and Do in Social Theater (Teatro Sociale)
The theatre’s neoclassical facade is one of its most striking features. A grand entrance portico supported by six free-standing Corinthian columns immediately sets the tone for an elegant cultural experience. Stepping inside, visitors find themselves in a cello-shaped auditorium lined with red velvet seats that create an intimate yet majestic atmosphere.
Look up to admire the painted ceiling by Eleuterio Pagliano, featuring muses descending from Olympus with crowns for artists. This dramatic scene adds a sense of mythological grandeur to the space. The main curtain, designed by Alessandro Sanquirico, is equally evocative, depicting the volcanic death of Pliny the Elder, a nod to Como’s Roman heritage.
If you have the opportunity, attend a performance-whether opera, classical music, theatre, or dance. The Teatro Sociale's acoustics and atmosphere create a memorable experience. During summer, don't miss the theatre's Arena, where large-scale outdoor productions and concerts fill Como with vibrant energy.
How to Get to Social Theater (Teatro Sociale)
The Social Theater sits close to the historic center of Como, making it easy to reach whether arriving from within Italy or abroad. International visitors will likely arrive through Milan Malpensa or Milan Linate airports, both offering easy access to Como via public transport. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Como on Booking.com.
Como San Giovanni is the nearest major train station, with frequent connections from Milan and Switzerland, and from there it's a pleasant walk to the theatre through the old streets. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.
If you prefer to drive, Como is well connected by highways and scenic lakeside roads. Parking around the historic center may be competitive, so using one of the public garages nearby is often the most convenient option. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Practical Tips on Visiting Social Theater (Teatro Sociale)
- Best time to visit Social Theater: Evening performances offer the most atmospheric experience.
- Entrance fee in Euros: Varies depending on the performance or exhibition.
- Opening hours: Box office and exhibition hours vary; evenings typically host performances.
- Official website: Search “Teatro Sociale Como official site” for current schedules.
- How long to spend: Around 1-2 hours for a performance; 20-30 minutes if viewing the exterior and foyer only.
- Accessibility: Generally good, with step-free access to main areas and assistance available.
- Facilities: Restrooms, box office, and nearby cafés and restaurants.
- Photography tip: Capture the facade’s Corinthian columns in the soft light before sunset.
- Guided tours: Occasionally available; check event calendars for special visits.
- Nearby food options: Numerous trattorias and cafés within a few minutes’ walk.
Where to Stay close to Social Theater (Teatro Sociale)
The area around the Social Theater offers a range of excellent accommodations, all within easy reach of Como's main attractions. Palace Hotel provides elegant rooms and lakeside views just a short stroll from the theatre. For travelers wanting a central base with modern comforts, Albergo Firenze is a reliable option. A more historic stay awaits at Hotel Tre Re, set in a characterful building close to both the theatre and the cathedral.
Is Social Theater (Teatro Sociale) Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. The Social Theater is not only a cultural landmark but a living institution that continues to shape Como's artistic scene. With its neoclassical elegance, rich musical legacy, and vibrant annual festivals, it offers a memorable experience for anyone interested in the performing arts. Whether you attend a performance or simply admire the architecture, it stands as one of the must-see places in Como.
What Other Travellers Say...
Teatro Sociale, at Via Vincenzo Bellini 3 in Como, is an elegant neoclassical theatre with a frescoed ceiling that hosts dramas, concerts, dance and festival programs; visitors praise its beautiful historic interiors, comfortable seating with good sightlines, and a busy calendar including summer music festivals, ballet and competitions for young opera singers, while staff are described as helpful when the venue is used for conferences and large gatherings.
FAQs for Visiting Social Theater (Teatro Sociale)
Nearby Attractions to Social Theater (Teatro Sociale)
- Como Cathedral: The city's grand Gothic cathedral, steps away from the theatre.
- Piazza Volta: A lively square with cafés and dining options.
- Silk Museum (Museo della Seta): Exploring Como’s historic silk industry.
- Tempio Voltiano: A museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta's scientific legacy.
- Funicular to Brunate: Offering panoramic views over Como and the lake.
The Social Theater appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Como!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
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Planning Your Visit
Nearby Attractions
- Como Cathedral (0.1) km
Cathedral - Broletto di Como (0.1) km
Town Hall - Terme di Como Romana (0.2) km
Roman Site - Basilica di San Fedele (0.2) km
Church - Piazza Cavour (0.3) km
Square - Museo Archeologico Paolo Giovio (0.4) km
Museum - Museo Storico Giuseppe Garibaldi (0.4) km
Museum - Statua di Alessandro Volta (0.4) km
Statue - Torre San Vitale (0.5) km
Tower - The Life Electric (0.5) km
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