Ancient Theatre in Epidaurus

The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is a well-preserved ancient theater located in the Peloponnese region of Greece, near the town of Ligourio. It is located about 30 km away from Naflio and on a 2-hour drive from Athens.  It is part of the larger archaeological site of the Sanctuary of Asclepius, a famous healing center in the classical world.

Built in the late 4th century BC, the theater is renowned for its exceptional acoustics and architectural beauty. Visitors to Epidaurus can experience the remarkable sound quality, where even a whisper from the stage can be heard clearly by all 13,000 spectators. Surrounded by lush greenery, the theater provides a stunning backdrop for performances, making it a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts.

The theater was designed by the architect Polykleitos the Younger and constructed in two stages. Initially, it had 34 rows of seats, later expanded to accommodate more spectators. The structure includes a circular orchestra, where the chorus performed, and a semi-circular seating area, known as the cavea, which is divided into two sections by a walkway. The theater was used for dramatic performances that were considered therapeutic, as it was believed that watching plays had beneficial effects on both mental and physical health. After being damaged by invasions and natural disasters, the site was excavated in the late 19th century, and today it remains one of the best-preserved examples of ancient Greek theater. Each summer, it hosts performances as part of the Athens and Epidaurus Festival, allowing visitors to experience ancient Greek drama in its original setting.