Ancient Theatre at the Asclepieion of Epidaurus
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GreecePeloponnese, Western Greece and the IonianMunicipality of EpidaurusAncient Theatre at the Asclepieion of Epidaurus
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The Theatre of Epidaurus is an absolute must-visit for history and culture buffs, architects, and theatre enthusiasts alike. Located in the heart of Greece, it offers a fascinating journey back in time to the heart of ancient Greek drama. I was instantly struck by the theater's architectural marvel and pristine condition considering its age; it's incredibly well-preserved and still hosts performances during the summer months. The acoustics are nothing short of phenomenal – even whispers from the stage can be heard clearly from the top seats. It is mind-boggling to think that such precision in design was achieved thousands of years ago! The view from the theatre is breathtaking as well. The lush greenery and the distant mountains serve as a backdrop, enhancing the overall immersive experience. It's not just about seeing a historical structure; it's about feeling connected to the past in the most profound way. While the site itself is awe-inspiring, do keep in mind that it can get quite hot in the summer months. Bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Also, consider wearing comfortable shoes as the stone steps can be steep and slippery. The staff on site were knowledgeable and helpful, keen to share interesting facts and stories about the theatre's history and the performances that took place here. Visiting the nearby museum was also a highlight, showcasing an array of artifacts and providing a deeper understanding of the historical significance of the site. Overall, the Theatre of Epidaurus is an unforgettable destination, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. I'd recommend it to anyone visiting Greece. Don't miss the chance to sit in the same seats where ancient Greeks once sat and enjoy the unique connection with history!
Fabian MichelFabian Michel
20
Stepping into the Ancient Theater of Epidavros is like traveling back in time. The theater, with its impeccable acoustics and majestic stone steps, is a testament to the architectural genius of ancient Greece. Set against a backdrop of lush greenery, it offers an immersive experience of history and art combined. Every summer, the theater comes alive with performances, and the addition of English subtitles on discreet side screens ensures everyone can follow along and be part of the magic. Watching a play of Sophocles, Aristophanes or other great writers of the time at this theater is an experience you shouldn't miss if you're visiting the area. Bit of history: The Ancient Theater of Epidavros, dating back to the 4th century BC, was originally designed as a healing space dedicated to the god of medicine, Asclepius. Its incredible acoustics, a marvel of ancient engineering, ensured performances could be heard clearly by all attendees.
Dimitris KDimitris K
00
Medea by Franc Castorf Eurepedes performed at the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus July 21-22 2023. The female actresses were superb in what they were directed to deliver. Creon, was also convincing. Jason….fell short as historic presence and as dramatic deliverance. Costumes were interchangeable trying to connect the ancient drama with on going war and with industrial images of today projected on a large screen. Although a super large screen dominating the ancient stage was effective in presenting to the spectators high up a close up of the actor’s expressions, it felt out of place. A broken down neon sight of Coca Cola at the top right of the screen possibly predicting a demise of today’s multinational corporations and their “ugly shore” social effect but I fail to see any connection with the ancient drama by Euripides. The stage was covered with plastic trashed water bottles some of them bundled and palletised among some multicoloured camping tents. I have to suppose that was another statement for the “ugly shore”. The whole play was so long and Euripides’s ancient text was so absent - well everybody knows the story- the director must have presumed that on the second hour of continued playing the departing viewers creating a steady stream rivalling the one that took place during the previous week play by Aristophanes “sfikes”. Who might be responsible for this fiasco of “exposing” our ancient theatrical masterpieces to us Greeks and to ancient theatre foreign lovers I am not sure. But mr Castorf the German director had warned us about this. So, good luck mr Castorf for putting on stage your next “fallacies”. The one left behind to bare the weight of disappointment of the theatre loving people must be the artistic director at the Athens Epidaurus Festival ms Katerina Evangelatos, daughter of one of the greatest theatrical directors who passed from Epidaurus.
Yiorgos DimitriadisYiorgos Dimitriadis
00
The Ancient Theatre itself deserves 5 stars. Wonderful proportions, great acoustics and a superb setting with hills as a backdrop. If you are visiting together try out the sound with one on stage and others in seats, if alone, simply clap your hands with increasing volume to appreciate the reverberation. In July and August there are regular productions that merit a visit. There is a small museum - interestingly medical implements (many very similar to modern day). Many of the sculptures are reproductions with the original marbles now in Athens. The beautiful Corinthian column and the dogs' heads and single boar's head as ornaments for the top of Artemis temple are certainly worth viewing. Ancient spa, restaurant and hotel are interesting but easier to appreciate with a guide. Much is still roped off with archaeological work underway (so you cannot see the labyrinth or the tunnel to the stadium).
Kate Griffiths-LambethKate Griffiths-Lambeth
30
We came to see the theatre during the day and see the show The Bacchae in the evening. The theatre itself is the largest and best preserved. Very impressive. If you come for a show be aware of the following points. 1. Aim to be there a bit early, there was traffic and some delays getting in and finding a parking space. 2. For the lower tiers, a cushion is provided, but not the upper tier. Suggest you bring something if you can. 3. If the weather is hot then stone seats retain the heat from the sun for the entire show. So again, if you book upper tier, bring something to sit on. 4. English subtitles are shown on the white boards to the side, however, they are quite small and far away, so make sure your prescription is up to date!
Toby NicholsToby Nichols
00
A truly fitting home of theatre! I attended the ancient theatre of Epidaurus during the Athens Epidaurus Festival 2022 to watch The Persians directed by Dimitris Karantzas. The theatre is stunning, extremely well preserved with the mountains providing a stunning backdrop. Any show here is worth a watch! See pictures to appreciate its scale and capacity! This is a MUST do if you’re next in Athens or nearby. Coaches regularly do a round trip especially for this festival. Ticket prices depend on your seat but are relatively cheap. Tip: there is also a museum, ruins of sanatorium complex, and temples to see. Be sure to dedicate enough time to have a look around! Plenty of places around to have a bite and drink. Great place!
Jas SidhuJas Sidhu
20
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Address
Επίδαυρος 210 52, Greece
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Phone
+30 2753 022009
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Website
odysseus.culture.gr
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Description
The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is a theatre in the Greek city of Epidaurus, located on the southeast end of the sanctuary dedicated to the ancient Greek God of medicine, Asclepius. It is built on the west side of Cynortion Mountain, near modern Lygourio, and belongs to the Epidaurus Municipality.
attractions: Stadium at the Asclepieion of Epidaurus, Archaeological Site of the Sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus, Temple of Asclepius at Epidaurus, Archaeological Museum of the Asclepieion of Epidaurus, Sanctuary of Apollo Maleatas, Katagogion at the Asclepieion of Epidaurus, restaurants: Epidaurus Xenia, Anapsiktirio
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