It is known that “Nabucco” is an opera  by Giuseppe Verdi…so why is the the Nabucco pipeline called like an opera? Hmm, maybe it has something do to with the story and mythology of the opera you might think. Or is it somehow linked to the ancient city state of Babylon? The name Nabucco ( in English Nebuchadnezzar, a Babylonian king) is also a symbol for freedom and independence…

Well, I doubt that pipeline politics is that philosophical. However, the official answer to this pressing question:

The first Nabucco meeting took place in Vienna. After the meeting the Consortium – at that time consisting of OMV, MOL, Transgaz, Bulgargaz and Botas – went to Vienna State Opera and enjoyed Nabucco from Giuseppe Verdi. Subsequent the Consortium went to dinner and when talks came to a potential name for die Pipeline, everyone agreed that it should be Nabucco.

Ok this is interesting but the reason for the decision is still unknown. Can it be linked to the stage stetting of the Vienna opera? Or was it the result of alcohol consumption during the diner? Or is there anything in the story that could have led to the decision?

Any ideas?