Music & Museum – Hellenic Republic

Maria Callas is widely recognised as the foremost opera icon of the 20^th century, renowned for her unique interpretations and techniques.

The Greek soprano became an international figure who transformed the opera genre forever with her exceptional musical education and remarkable interpretive skills, while her divine persona continues to inspire artists worldwide.

Maria Callas (Anna Maria Sophia Cecilia Kalogeropoulou) was born in Manhattan, New York, in 1923. In 1937, she returned to Athens and began her studies at the National Conservatory under Maria Trivella. At the age of twenty-four, her international career was launched with a performance in Ponchielli's Gioconda. Four years later, Maria made her official debut at La Scala in Milan, where she presented Verdi's I Vespri Siciliani.

Callas graced some of the world's most prestigious stages, including the Royal Opera House in London, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, the Paris Opera, and the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. Her performances were powerful and captivating, leaving audiences in awe and establishing her as one the greatest vocalists of her time.

In 2023, the first “Maria Callas” Museum opened its doors in Athens, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in her world and her unique interpretation of some of the most iconic roles of her career, such as Norma, Tosca and La Traviata. Moreover, opera enthusiasts can explore the masterclasses she facilitated at the Juilliard School in New York.

Through texts, objects, videos and rare sound clips, the thread of Maria Callas’s life and career unfolds. From her beginnings, her years in Greece, her international career and major roles, to her worldly life, her personality, the moments and people of her life, and the legacy she left behind.

Bonus Trivia!

• In 2023, the 100^th birth anniversary of the famous lyric singer was included on the List of Commemorations and Anniversaries observed by UNESCO.
• The oldest contract of the four-story building that currently houses the museum dates back to 1928. Until the 1960s, it operated as a three-star hotel under the name “Royal”.
• On 2 December, the birthday of Maria Callas, the museum is offering free admission.

Sources & photographs taken from: https://mariacallasmuseum.gr/en/

Photographs No 3-5: Photo Credits → Vangelis Patsialos

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