The Sydney Opera House is located on the visually prominent outcrop of Bennelong Point, in the shadow of the Sydney Harbor Bridge, and, with its distinctive silhouette, is an icon of Australia and one of the world’s most recognizable architectural landmarks. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, the waterfront performing arts center was designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon in collaboration with structural engineer Ove Arup & Partners (the firm has evolved into international powerhouse Arup). It officially opened its doors in 1973, with Queen Elizabeth II presiding over the ceremony, and today marks the semicentennial anniversary of that commemoration.
Like many great works, the success of the final product can mask the herculean efforts and near intractable challenges overcome behind the scenes. The project was completed a decade behind schedule and the original $7 million (AUD) budget ballooned to over $100 million (AUD), not to mention that factional strife led to Utzon’s resignation as architect in 1966.
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