Opera in a Roman Quarry

After 2,000 years of sandstone extraction, an old Roman quarry takes on an odd resemblance to a monumental opera set. What better place to host an actual opera? Thus was the rational for the St. Margarethen Opera, founded in 1996, which draws 200,000 attendees to Europe's largest natural stage each summer. The open-air performances feature not only international opera stars and productions, but also jazz and pop greats and a children's fairytale opera each year, for younger audiences.

Audiences will catch "Carmen" in 2012 -- but just as memorable will be the magnificent natural environment, the moonlit set and the sheer scale of the breathtaking rock formations. Culinary delicacies abound in the newly designed Foyer Park, while various vendors offer the region's outstanding wines. Prepare for a memorable experience in an unforgettable setting.