Knowledge
Tools

  Double-click on any word that you do not understand in the text to get its meaning from Cambridge Online Dictionaries. To see the Greek translation of the word, select the option "Greek" and then double-click on the word again. To return to the Cambridge Online Dictionaries select the option "English".
Select Greek translation or English meaning.


Ancient Theatres


A typical Greek amphitheatre

The Theatre of Epidaurus is located in the area of ancient Epidaurus, this theatre can accommodate an audience of 14.000. The ancient Greeks considered the theatre in the sanctuary of Asclepios, built by the architect Polycleitus, as the most beautiful and harmonious one. But without doubt the major attraction is its legendary acoustics, which amaze and delight 21st century audiences. If you drop a matchstick in the centre of the stage, people sitting in the highest of the 55 tiers can hear it.

Another such theatre with great acoustics includes the Odeion of Herodes Atticus (The Herodion). Under the shadow of the Acropolis and a short distance from the theatre of Dionysos, the Odeion was built as a covered theatre for 5.000 spectators in AD 160. Now restored, it is used for artistic events at the Athens Festival.

Other well-preserved ancient theatres include the Theatre of Dion in Macedonia and the Kourion amphitheatre in Limassol, Cyprus.

Check that you understand what these words mean in this document
To accommodate: to seat.
Audience: the group of people gathered in one place to watch or listen to a play etc.
Tiers: levels.

For further information visit:
Epidaurus’ Architecture
Construction of ancient Greek theatres
Theatre guide