Ancient Theater of Epidaurus

World's most famous ancient theatre

The Ancient Theater of Epidaurus is regarded as the finest ancient Greek theater concerning acoustics and design. It holds 13,000 spectators and is situated in the Epidaurus Asklepios region, only 14 km from the village of Lygourio. The theater, a significant aspect of the ancient Greek faith, was constructed in the late fourth century BC on the slopes of Kynortyou to amuse the patients of Asklepios. It functioned for many centuries, and in 395 AD, the Gothic invasion of the Peloponnese inflicted significant harm on Asklepion. In 426 AD, Theodosius the Great bans the functioning of Asklepios, leading to the final closure of the temple of Epidaurus after almost 1,000 years. Natural disasters and human activities fully destroy the region. The ancient theater was uncovered following excavations carried out by archaeologist P. Kavadias, sponsored by the Athens Archaeological Society from 1870 to 1926. A couple of years later, in 1938, the initial performance (Sophocles' Electra) occurred at the ancient Epidaurus theater. The performances stopped during World War II, and in the early 1950s, the theater was renovated to accommodate a larger audience. Ultimately, in 1955, the Epidaurus Festival was established, featuring performances each summer. Notably, many of the most renowned Greek and international actors have had the privilege of acting at the ancient theater of Epidaurus. As they explore the theater, visitors will be captivated by the views and landmarks of the Asklepios temple (375 BC) on the northern incline, the Apollo Maleatas temple (4th century BC), the Enkoimeterion or Avaton, the patients' hall, the intriguing circular Dome structure, and the temples of Aphrodite, Artemis, and Themis, many of which are undergoing maintenance and restoration.