Epidaurus Ancient Theatre
Pelopónnisos
The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, located in the Greek city of Epidaurus on the Peloponnese peninsula, is celebrated as the most perfect ancient Greek theatre in terms of acoustics and aesthetics. Constructed in the late 4th century BC by architect Polykleitos the Younger, it was part of the sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine. The theatre could accommodate between 13,000 and 14,000 spectators and was used for music, singing, and dramatic competitions integral to the worship of Asclepius. Its design features a tripartite structure with a theatron (seating area), orchestra (circular performance space), and skene (stage building), with a unique auditorium layout optimizing sound and sightlines. Remarkably, it survived Roman times without major alterations. The theatre continues to host performances today, notably as part of the annual Epidaurus Festival, which revives ancient drama in summer months. Its enduring cultural significance and outstanding preservation led to its inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988 alongside the Temple of Asclepius.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to attend performances during the summer Epidaurus Festival to experience ancient drama in its authentic setting. Booking tickets in advance is recommended due to the theatre's popularity. Early evening visits offer pleasant weather and enhance the acoustic experience. Discounts may be available for students and groups. The theatre is accessible by car and public transport, with visitor facilities nearby.
Faits intéressants
- •The theatre is famed for its exceptional acoustics, allowing even whispers from the stage to be heard clearly in the highest seats.
- •It was used as a therapeutic venue, based on the belief that watching dramatic performances aided mental and physical healing.
- •The theatre has a maximum capacity of approximately 13,000 to 14,000 spectators, making it one of the largest ancient theatres.
- •The Epidaurus Festival, established in 1955, is an annual event showcasing ancient Greek drama performed by renowned actors.
- •Greek soprano Maria Callas performed notable operas here in the 1960s, highlighting the theatre's use beyond ancient drama.
Histoire
The theatre was built circa 340-300 BCE during the late Classical period by Polykleitos the Younger, renowned for its symmetry and beauty.
Originally part of the sanctuary of Asclepius, it hosted cultural and healing events.
In the 2nd century BCE, the auditorium was expanded to increase capacity, and the stage building was modified to accommodate evolving theatrical practices.
Despite damage during invasions, particularly by the Heruli in 267 BCE, restorations preserved its original Greek features.
Modern archaeological excavations began in 1881, with significant restorations in the 20th and 21st centuries, allowing the theatre to retain its original form and continue functioning as a cultural venue.
Guide du lieu
The TheatronLate 4th century BC
The theatron is the seating area carved into the hillside, divided into a lower and upper section separated by a horizontal corridor. It was designed with three focal points to optimize acoustics and visibility for up to 14,000 spectators.
The OrchestraLate 4th century BC
A circular performance space with a diameter of 20 meters, the orchestra was the central area for musical and dramatic presentations. It contains the thymele, a circular stone altar base, and is surrounded by an ancient drainage system called the euripos.
The SkeneLate 4th century BC and mid-2nd century BC
The skene is the stage building located behind the orchestra, constructed in two phases: late 4th century BC and mid-2nd century BC. It featured a two-storey structure with a proscenium and colonnade, as well as backstage rooms for performers.
Contact
Téléphone: 2753 022009