The Opera House as seen from the harbor.
An unusual view if the famous Sydney Opera House taken high up on the equally famous Harbor Bridge.
After the Melbourne Olympics of 1956 Sydney found itself slipping to second place as Australia's premier metropolis. Concerned citizens decided to upgrade Sydney's cultural image by building and opera house. Using the famous American/Finnish architect Eero Saarinen to sort through the international competition, the design by Danish architect Joern Utzon was selected. Built for about 11 or 12 times over projected cost, and using a roof design never before attempted, Mr. Utzon never saw his work. But, after a decade the project was finally completed, a building of world fame and an icon of not only Sydney, but Australia. We attended a performance in the 1500 seat concert hall, dining first in the nearby district called the Rocks, at a restaurant named Rockpool, a center for Australian nouveau cuisine. This restaurant, owned by Chef Neil Perry prides itself on using only the freshest ingredients from local producers. I highly recommend it. As for the Opera House it is a must see along with the Eiffel Tower and the Tower Bridge. More than an opera venue, it is Australia's premier center for the performing arts.
