In celebration of what would have been the 100th birthday of the legendary opera soprano Maria Callas, Greece has unveiled a museum in Athens dedicated to preserving and showcasing the life and career of the influential singer. Nestled in a three-story neoclassical building, the Maria Callas Museum provides visitors with an intimate glimpse into the world of the opera diva, featuring an array of personal items, from her prescription glasses and costumes to a notebook she used to memorize her roles. “Maria Callas is one of the biggest brand names worldwide; she is a woman who became a legend,” stated Kostis Bitzanis, the museum’s project director.
Inside the museum, one can find a diverse collection of items that paint a vivid picture of Callas’ life and career. Among the treasures on display are a sample of Callas’ hair and a sketch of a design by luxury shoemaker Manolo Blahnik, inspired by the soprano. These items, along with a blue velvet dress she donned after her memorable 1955 performance of Verdi’s La Traviata at Milan’s La Scala, have been either donated or loaned to the museum. On the second floor, visitors can immerse themselves in Callas’ artistry, listening to parts of her signature performances, including the aria “Casta Diva” from Bellini’s opera “Norma.” In addition, there are recordings of her teaching at the Juilliard School in New York in 1971-1972, where she advises her students to “Keep on going … in the proper way, not with the fireworks, not with the easy applause.” This advice, given in her farewell speech in March 1972, encapsulates the ethos of Callas’ approach to her craft.
The Maria Callas Museum in Athens not only honours the legacy of one of the 20th century’s most iconic opera figures but also offers an intimate look into the life of a woman who single-handedly revived the Italian bel canto vocal technique. It serves as a testament to the enduring impact Callas has had on the world of opera. It is a must-visit for fans and admirers of the soprano’s extraordinary talent and dedication to her craft.
