When Did Mozart Live in Prague?

By Alice Nichols

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was a prolific and renowned composer of the Classical era. He lived from 1756 to 1791 and is considered one of the greatest composers in Western classical music history. During his lifetime, he traveled extensively throughout Europe, performing for royalty and composing some of his most famous works.

Prague: A Musical Hub

One of the cities that Mozart visited was Prague, which was a hub for musical activity during the late 18th century. The city had a rich cultural heritage and was home to many talented musicians and composers.

Mozart first visited Prague in January 1787, when he was invited to conduct the premiere of his new opera, “Don Giovanni,” at the Estates Theatre. The opera was a resounding success, with critics calling it a “masterpiece” and audiences giving it standing ovations.

The Second Visit

Encouraged by the success of “Don Giovanni,” Mozart returned to Prague in 1791. This time, he came to conduct the premiere of his new opera, “La clemenza di Tito,” at the same theatre.

Unfortunately, things did not go as smoothly as they had during his first visit. Mozart arrived in Prague on September 6th but fell ill shortly thereafter.

Despite his illness, he managed to conduct the premiere of “La clemenza di Tito” on September 6th. However, he was unable to attend any other performances or social events during his stay in Prague.

Mozart’s Legacy in Prague

Despite his brief second visit and illness, Mozart’s legacy lives on in Prague. The city has dedicated several monuments to him, including a statue located near the Estates Theatre. In addition, the theatre still hosts performances of “Don Giovanni” and “La clemenza di Tito,” as well as other works by Mozart.

If you’re a fan of Mozart’s music, visiting Prague is a must. Not only can you see where his operas premiered, but you can also attend performances of his works in the same theatre where he conducted them over 200 years ago. It’s an experience that’s sure to be unforgettable for any classical music lover.